This winter, families and individuals in Itasca County will receive essential home and personal care items through United Way of 1000 Lakes’ Home for Good initiative. By providing critical household necessities, the program helps ease financial burdens and supports long-term housing stability. 

Part of United Way’s Family Financial Stability efforts, Home for Good assists those facing economic hardship by supplying cleaning supplies, toiletries, and other essentials. With 41% of local households struggling financially—12% in poverty and 29% classified as ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed)—these resources play a vital role in helping families maintain secure living conditions. 

Thanks to generous community support, the 2025 drive collected donations valued at $3,600, allowing United Way to assemble and distribute personal care kits and Home for Good baskets to an estimated 119 individuals. Contributions came from 16 drop-off locations, including Park State Bank (South location), Coldwell Banker Northwoods, Itasca County YMCA, Kiesler Wellness Center, Compass North, Deerwood Bank, Essentia Health (Grand Rapids and Deer River), Klockow Brewing Co., Members Credit Union, St. Andrews Lutheran Church, ServPro, and MDI. 

“I feel our community is very fortunate to have a resource like United Way to be able to reach out to for help,” said Emily Perron. “The essential packs United Way puts together and distributes have helped so many in our community. It goes beyond just meeting a physical need for somebody. It has a deeper impact on an individual knowing they are cared for in their time of need.” 

To learn more or support the program, visit uwlakes.org/home-for-good. Human service professionals can request care packs by calling 218-999-7570 or emailing Molly Hiipakka at molly@uwlakes.org.