Community event brings essentials to 175 families in SeaTac

More than one in ten children in Washington live in households below the poverty threshold, limiting access to basic needs like seasonally appropriate clothing.¹ Clothing insecurity is associated with low self-esteem, bullying, and chronic absenteeism, negatively impacting children emotionally, socially, and academically.²

To help kids access the essentials they need for a safe and healthy winter season, UnitedHealthcare Community Plan of Washington teamed up with Seattle Seahawks safety Julian Love to provide shoes, winter clothes, and no-cost haircuts to kids in the community. The initiative brought together 175 elementary-aged children and their families at the Matt Griffin YMCA in SeaTac.

The event featured a community celebration where local leaders spoke about the importance of access to essentials and encouraging the children to focus on their goals. Providing warm clothing and personal care not only meets immediate needs but also sets children up for long-term success by helping children feel safe, focus on learning, and build positive self-esteem.

“We care about families, and we want to make sure they have the essentials to live healthy lives. Access to warm coats and shoes are so important to helping kids stay healthy as winter approaches.” Greg Irby, UnitedHealthcare Community Plan of Washington.

This marks UnitedHealthcare Community Plan of Washington’s second collaboration with Julian Love and Dreambuilders to support the community: last year, the “Love’s Huddle” initiative brough laundry facilities and hygiene products to three locations across the Bellevue community.

These events are just one way that UnitedHealthcare Community Plan of Washington partners in the community to support healthy starts for kids. To learn more about UnitedHealthcare Community Plan of Washington, visit UHCCS.com/WA.