Community Issues

• Over 17,000 residents are over age 65.
• The number of single-person households over 65 is expected to grow at twice the rate of the entire state.
• 71 percent of low-income families are employed. The average weekly wage is only $717—significantly lower than that of the other counties in the metro area and the state.
• In 2004, United Way 2-1-1™ made 17,000 referrals in Anoka County. More than half of callers needed help with basic needs like food and rent assistance.

Our Response

• We support programs that keep seniors independent like the Senior Outreach Program at Anoka County Community Action Program. Last year, the program served 800 seniors—60 percent were low-income.
• In 2004 the Community Emergency Action Program (CEAP) distributed over 194 tons of food (451,460 meals), serving 22,000 individuals. Over half of the food shelf’s clients were children and more than 2,600 people who visited the food shelf were employed.
• United Way 2-1-1™ is a free and confidential resource and referral line available 24/7.  Just dial 2-1-1.
• See what we're doing in your community. View our Anoka County Fact Sheet (PDF).

Making a Difference

Success Stories

• Amy: A safe place helped me leave my abuser
• Hunter: Living life to the fullest, despite Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder
• Kristy: Savings program helped her save for home, education
• Mellissa: A reliable car makes a big difference

Programs and Services

• Anoka County partner agencies

Get Involved

Find Anoka County volunteer opportunies.