Mission United
Proudly serving those who have served.
ARE YOU A VETERAN, ACTIVE DUTY SERVICE MEMBER OR MILITARY FAMILY?
This is where you get the support you’ve earned.
Mission United is a United Way program of United Way of Lake and Sumter Counties and while Mission United is dedicated to serve those who have served, it also provides a personal touch that many of the Veterans Affairs options are simply unable to accommodate, often due to capacity.
More than 57,437 veterans call Lake or Sumter County home, 67% of which are below the ALICE threshold. Whether they left the service years ago or are currently transitioning to civilian life, many struggle with the challenges of navigating a complex system of services and finding their place in the community. Our Mission United program is a collective effort that identifies gaps and creates systemic change in the area of health care access, education, and stability assistance.
For individual assistance and case management, contact our Mission United Coordinator.
Our Role
The primary mission of our Mission United team is to guide veterans through the often complex system of benefits and services available to them. Whether by directly offering support or connecting veterans to trusted resources, we ensure they have access to a wide range of critical services, including:
- Employment Services
- Legal Assistance
- Education
- Financial Stability
- Health Care
- Housing Stability
The challenges faced by Veterans In Our community
The challenges faced by our veteran community are particularly staggering. Of the more than 57,437 veterans who call Lake and Sumter Counties home, a shocking 67% are living below the ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) threshold. This is significantly higher than the broader community, where nearly 43% of households in Lake County and 37% in Sumter County are at or below the poverty line, as highlighted in our United Way ALICE Report.
These statistics paint a stark picture of the struggles our veterans endure, underscoring the critical need for targeted support.
67% of Lake & Sumter Counties’ veteran residents are living below the ALICE Threshold.
- 67%
40% of Lake and Sumter Counties’ total population are living below the ALICE Threshold.
- 40%
These statistics highlight the urgent need for our Mission United program. We are dedicated to empowering veterans and their families by providing the tools, training, and opportunities they need to thrive. Through financial coaching, employment services, debt management, and asset-building assistance, we help pave the way to a brighter, more secure future for those who have served our country.
Mission United Success Stories
Success of our Mission United program is more than just a metric—it’s the heart of our mission to serve those who have served us.
As we confront the staggering number of veterans in Lake and Sumter Counties living below the ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) threshold, we understand that our true impact is not only reflected in these numbers but in the real, meaningful changes we help bring about in the lives of our veterans and their families.
Through Mission United, we provide not just essential resources, but also the support and opportunities veterans need to rebuild and thrive. Each success story stands as a powerful testament to the resilience of our veterans and the steadfast dedication of our community.
Join us in celebrating these victories and in fueling hope for a brighter future for those who have sacrificed so much for us.
Our Impact
In 2024, our Mission United program has proudly served 198 veteran families in Lake and Sumter Counties, providing critical support to those in need.
With 57,437 veterans in our community and a staggering 67% living below the ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) threshold, the need for our services has never been greater.
Your support ensures that we can continue to make a meaningful impact in the lives of those who have bravely served our country.
total veteran families served in 2024.
distributed in food assistance
distributed in rent and mortgage assistance.
distributed in utilities assistance.
News & Resources
The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP)
The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) is a U.S. government program run by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) program to help low-income households pay for internet service and connected devices like a laptop or tablet.
You are likely eligible if your household’s income is below 200% of the Federal Poverty Line, or if you or someone you live with currently receives a government benefit like SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, WIC, Pell Grant, or Free and Reduced-Price Lunch.
VALife Insurance Program
In January 2023, VA launched a new life insurance program called Veterans Affairs Life Insurance (VALife), which provides guaranteed acceptance whole life insurance coverage to veterans age 80 and under, with any level of service-connected disability. Some veterans age 81 and older may also be eligible.
How You Can Support Our Veterans
Your involvement is crucial in helping veterans and their families transition to civilian life, access essential services, and build a stable future. There are two impactful ways you can make a difference:
Support Our Mission With a Donation
Your generous donations enable us to provide vital resources such as housing assistance, mental health services, career training, and emergency financial support. Every dollar you contribute helps veterans overcome challenges and achieve long-term stability. Whether you choose to make a one-time donation or become a recurring donor, your support ensures that those who have served our country receive the help they deserve.
Volunteer Your Time
Volunteering with Mission United offers a unique opportunity to give back to those who have given so much. Whether it’s mentoring veterans, assisting with job placement services, or supporting our outreach events, your time and skills can make a meaningful impact. By volunteering, you not only help improve the lives of veterans but also gain a deeper understanding of the issues they face and how we are working to address them.
Join Us in Supporting Our Heroes
Together, we can create a community where every veteran has the opportunity to thrive. To learn more about how you can help, visit our donation page or sign up to volunteer today. Your involvement is the key to unlocking brighter futures for our veterans and their families.
Thank You to Our Sponsors!
