United Way Distributes 128 Sealy Tempur Mattresses

The United Way of Westchester and Putnam (United Way) is excited to announce that about a hundred families recently received new mattresses through its Essential Goods for Basic Needs program, thanks to a generous donation from Sealy Tempur through Good360. United Way distributed 128 high-quality mattresses to local nonprofits, enabling them to better serve their clients in Westchester and Putnam. This shipment of beds is the third mattress donation that United Way has provided since January 2023, which collectively totals approximately 400 mattresses and a value of $350,000.

The Essential Goods for Basic Needs program, a cornerstone initiative of the United Way, focuses on addressing critical needs in the community by providing essential items such as bedding, clothing, and household items like mattresses to individuals and families facing economic challenges. Adding beds to the program's offerings represents a substantial stride in enhancing the overall well-being and quality of life for those in need.

"Leaving the familiarity of home can be hard for any kid, especially when you're entering foster care. United Way knows how important the 'little' things are—even when they're big, like 39 new, high-quality mattresses donated to the kids on JCCA's residential campus," said Sandi Rosenthal of JCCA, one of the organizations that received mattresses. "We're grateful for this thoughtful gift, which will help our young people get the rest and sleep they need!"

The local nonprofit organizations that received the mattresses have a proven track record of serving vulnerable populations and supporting individuals experiencing homelessness, transitioning from crises, or rebuilding their lives. These organizations will distribute the mattresses to their clients, ensuring that a good night's sleep is within reach for more individuals and families across Westchester and Putnam counties.

Sealy Tempur, a recognized leader in the bedding industry, has demonstrated its commitment to corporate social responsibility by partnering with Good360 to ensure its surplus mattresses find purposeful second lives. Good360, a renowned nonprofit organization specializing in product philanthropy, facilitates the match between excess corporate products and nonprofit organizations.

"We are immensely grateful to Sealy Tempur and Good360 for their support of our Essential Goods for Basic Needs program," said Avery Zuvic, Director of Community Impact at United Way of Westchester and Putnam. "This partnership allows us to extend our impact by providing essential comfort and rest to individuals who may not have access to proper bedding. Together, we are making a significant difference in the lives of those we serve."

United Way of Westchester and Putnam remains committed to fostering collaborations that create lasting change and improve the well-being of residents. This partnership with Sealy Tempur and Good360 is a testament to their dedication to building stronger, more resilient communities.

For more information about the Essential Goods for Basic Needs program, please visit www.uwwp.org/egbn.


Four Westchester Residents Awarded Ruth Taylor Scholarships

United Way of Westchester and Putnam announced the awarding of scholarships collectively totaling $16,000 from its Ruth Taylor Scholarship Fund to four Westchester graduate students pursuing master’s degrees in social work or public health.

The four recipients are Layla Barreto, 21, of Port Chester; Stephanie Blackwell, 46, of New Rochelle; Christopher Chino-Marin, 25, of New Rochelle; and Arden Taylor Guice, 26, of Larchmont.

"Being chosen for the Ruth Taylor Scholarship serves as a reminder that I am not alone in my educational journey,” said Chino Martin. “Having this financial help will help reduce the burden of money-related anxiety, loans, and some daily stress about being able to afford basic essentials.”

Blackwell, Barreto, and Guice are earning their master’s degrees in social work from Fordham University, Hunter College, and Columbia University, respectively. Chino-Maring is pursuing a master’s degree in public health at SUNY Downstate.

“These individuals are excellent choices for this scholarship,” United Way President and CEO Tom Gabriel. “It truly benefits everyone to have people as dedicated as them to reach their full potential, and if we can help along the way with a scholarship, we are happy to do it. We can’t wait to see each of them continue to thrive.”

The fund was established in tribute to Ruth Taylor upon her retirement as Westchester County’s Commissioner of Public Welfare, recognizing her nearly four decades of outstanding service. United Way of Westchester and Putnam, Westchester County Government, and the Urban League of Westchester County sponsor the annual awards. Applicants must be residents of Westchester County and enrolled in graduate studies in Social Work or Public Health on a full-time basis.

Since 2008, United Way has awarded a collective total of $216,000 to 77 graduate students through the Ruth Taylor Scholarship Fund.

Feeding Westchester Honors United Way with a Collaborative Partnership Award

United Way of Westchester and Putnam was recognized by Feeding Westchester during its 2023 Agency Conference with the organization’s Collaborative Partnership Award for the Feeding United program, which delivers 4,000 bags of food a month to families with school-aged children who qualify for free or reduced lunch, seniors, formerly homeless veterans, and individuals with disabilities. During the summer, the parcels include books and activities to engage the children. Additionally, each student received a new backpack filled with school supplies.

Sen. Mayer Partners with United Way to Collect School Supplies for Port Chester Students

NYS Senator Shelley Mayer teamed up with United Way of Westchester and Putnam to host school supply drives throughout her district. United Way donated the collected items to the Port Chester School District to give to their students and teachers.

“There are many families living from paycheck to paycheck in Westchester,’’ said Tom Gabriel, CEO of United Way of Westchester and Putnam. "Efforts like these can make a difference in our communities. We cannot thank the Senator and her staff for their partnership and support.

The estimated cost of school supplies is between $500 and $800 per student, according to the National Retail Federation.