The United Way of Whitman County has initiated their 2025-26 community grant cycle, inviting local nonprofits to apply for funding. This grant cycle is available to all 501(c)(3) nonprofits focused on financial and food security, healthcare access, community resiliency, or youth opportunity. Applications must be submitted by 5:00 pm on May 15, and interested parties can download an application at WhitmanUnited.org.

Additionally, the United Way is providing an update on Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library program. The recently released Washington State Legislature’s 2025-2027 operating budget did not allocate state funding for the expansion of the Imagination Library. Consequently, the program, along with ongoing emergency food support, is facing challenges this year. UWWC Board President Heidi Benjamin noted that these developments could affect the ability to promote reading among young children in Whitman County, while also emphasizing efforts to maintain support for Community Grants that aid local nonprofits.