What are basic needs?

When we say basic needs, we mean everything from food services like pantries and meals to shelter services, utility assistance and transportation.

Heart of West Michigan United Way partners with community leaders to identify the greatest local needs and respond accordingly. We also respond to calls for help individuals through United Way’s accredited 2-1-1 call center, which provides information and referrals to our community at no cost, around the clock.

Community Snapshot: Basic Needs Report

The Kent County Emergency Needs Task Force (ENTF) provides data and analysis on the basic needs of the Kent County community. The ENTF is a community collaborative of 100 non-profit agencies, government, faith-based organizations, funders and concerned community members who work together to address our citizen's basic needs. The ENTF monitors basic service systems in Kent County, including food, shelter, utilities and transportation.