Philadelphia, PA — United Way of Greater Philadelphia and Southern New Jersey (UWGPSNJ) announced today that it has received a generous donation from philanthropist and author, MacKenzie Scott. United Way was among 384 organizations who received a total of $4.2 billion as part of Ms. Scott’s giving to organizations working to alleviate suffering for those hardest hit by the pandemic.
“We are honored and humbled to have received a gift from MacKenzie Scott.” said Bill Golderer, CEO of United Way of Greater Philadelphia and Southern New Jersey. “It is with profound gratitude that we thank Ms. Scott for her generous gift as it speaks to the incredible work being done across our community.”
This unexpected gift will allow UWGPSNJ to fund existing and new transformative work to aid in our region’s efforts to build back stronger from the economic impact of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
In the next 90 days, UWGPSNJ, along with the Regional Board of Directors, will share publicly a comprehensive plan to invest these funds – and to hopefully attract other local investment – in a manner that meets Ms. Scott’s high expectations. United Way will rely on input from stakeholders from across our geography and across sectors – beginning with those closest to the struggle to overcome barriers and claim opportunity.
“We pledge to maximize the impact of this investment by driving proven and promising solutions that expand equitable opportunity and reduce poverty in this critical moment facing our community,” continued Golderer. “We hope that Ms. Scott’s generosity will inspire local investors to join our fight through sacrificial investment, a commitment to execution, and bold action in the face of so much suffering.”
###
United Way of Greater Philadelphia and Southern New Jersey (UWGPSNJ) is on a mission to reduce poverty and expand opportunity for all. Serving Pennsylvania’s Chester, Delaware, Montgomery and Philadelphia counties, and New Jersey’s Atlantic, Burlington, Camden, Cape May and Cumberland counties, United Way creates solutions that break the cycle of poverty. As part of a network of independent local nonprofit organizations, United Way provides countless ways to give, advocate and volunteer.