Initiative aims to provide household essentials to 3,500+ individuals and families
MINNEAPOLIS (October 5, 2026) — Greater Twin Cities United Way (United Way) today announced the launch of its annual Home For Good initiative, as the weather begins to cool and residents across the region continue to face steady increases in housing, gas and food costs. Inflation, increased housing costs, proposed cuts to HUD funding and Operation Metro Surge have deepened financial strain for thousands of households across the metro. These pressures also impact families who are experiencing homelessness, making it more difficult and costly for them to transition into stable housing.
To help meet this rising need, United Way is mobilizing volunteers, donors, corporate partners, and nonprofits across the region to provide neighbors with the household essentials they need to maintain a stable and thriving home. This year, United Way aims to support more than 3,500 individuals and families in the Greater Twin Cities.
Home For Good launches at a moment when housing instability is rising. And at a time of increased danger to Twin Cities residents looking for a safe, warm place to live during cold fall and winter months. United Way’s nonprofit partners across the region continue to report a sharp increase in housing-related requests. United Way’s 211 resource helpline consistently reports rent and utilities assistance as the top reason people reach out for support.
Additionally, 35% of Minnesota households are ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) – many of whom are working yet still cannot afford basic expenses. United For ALICE reports that all nine of the Twin Cities metro counties showed increases in housing costs between 2023 and 2024. The combined strain of rising costs for housing and household essentials, along with disruptions to safety net programs, means ALICE families are increasingly forced to choose between rent, utilities, food and transportation.
“Everyone deserves a safe, affordable and stable place to call home. And too many community members are stretched thin trying to figure out how to make rent while still affording groceries, gas and medication,” said Shannon Smith Carter, chief impact officer at Greater Twin Cities United Way. “At a time when so many of our neighbors are making incredibly difficult decisions, Home For Good helps more people access household essentials that relieve their monthly budgets and help them build a thriving home.”
Home For Good reflects needs and priorities consistently shared with United Way by local nonprofits. Providing highly requested household essentials – like dish soap, trash bags, toothbrushes, shampoo and conditioner – can help alleviate financial burdens for families working to build and maintain stable homes.
“It's been a difficult year, and through it all, our community continually demonstrates how much they want to help. We just need to create clear ways for them to do it,” said Melissa Wilson, associate vice president of Advancement at Greater Twin Cities United Way, who leads volunteer efforts. “Home For Good makes it easy for neighbors, families and groups to make a difference. Every donation and volunteer helps more people in our region have what they need to feel home for good.”
Community members can support Home For Good by:
Learn more and sign up to volunteer or donate at gtcuw.org/homeforgood
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About Greater Twin Cities United Way
Greater Twin Cities United Way unites changemakers, advocates for social good, and develops solutions to address the challenges no one can solve alone to create a community where all people thrive regardless of income, race or place. For more information, visit gtcuw.org and follow us on LinkedIn, TikTok, Instagram, Facebook and Bluesky.
