RELEASED 5/12/2020
United Way of the Lower Eastern Shore’s annual partnership application process is currently open to local
non-profits seeking annual program funding and partnership for 2021, with a submission deadline of May
22, 2020.
Nonprofit organizations with established programs focused on Health, Education, or Financial Stability
serving Lower Shore residents may be eligible to apply. Applicants must meet the minimum guidelines
including but not limited to: actively registered as a 501(c)3 nonprofit in the State of Maryland; existing
for at least one year with oversight by an independent volunteer Board of Directors; and providing
services in Worcester, Wicomico, Somerset or Dorchester Counties. A complete list of agency and
program requirements, the application portal link, and instructions are available online at
www.uwles.org/funding. All applications and supporting documents must be submitted through the
UWLES online portal before May 22, 5:00 pm. Prospective new partners should contact Claire Otterbein
before proceeding with the application.
Applications will be reviewed, and site visits conducted, by the UWLES Community Impact Committee
during the summer and decisions will be communicated in September 2020 with funding distribution
beginning in January. This is not a grant opportunity for COVID-19 relief. Current UWLES partners seeking
COVID-19 relief assistance may visit www.uwles.org/COVID-19. Nonprofits may contact Claire Otterbein
for more information on any UWLES funding or partnership opportunity at 410-742-5143 or
claire@uwles.org.
About United Way of the Lower Eastern Shore:
United Way of the Lower Eastern Shore, now in its 75th year, serves all communities in Dorchester,
Somerset, Wicomico, and Worcester counties. United Way helps Lower Shore residents obtain
Educational Success by reducing the achievement gap between low and middle-income students,
Financial Stability by advancing the economic security of families and individuals, and Good Health by
improving access to and awareness of local health and wellness services. United Way collaborates with
organizations and stakeholders to strengthen our community, and provides over $1 million annually in
support of 80 programs and community initiatives, impacting 1 in every 3 individuals on the Lower Shore.
For more information on United Way or to help make a difference, visit www.uwles.org,
www.ShoreGetConnected.org, or on Facebook @uwles and Instagram @unitedwayles.