City of Goldsboro Invests in UCAN Program to Support Residents in Need

The City of Goldsboro is investing $50,000 in the United Way of Wayne County’s UCAN (United Community Assistance Network) program to strengthen support for residents facing unexpected hardship. Funding will come from the City’s Non-Profit Support line item.

Beginning October 1, Goldsboro residents experiencing unexpected hardship will be able to access vital assistance through UCAN. Following program guidelines, the City’s investment will provide direct aid for urgent needs such as rent, utilities, water, and transportation. In addition, the City’s investment will allow UCAN to support households temporarily displaced due to HUD-funded repairs to their homes, ensuring families remain safe, connected, and supported during housing disruptions.

“The City is proud to invest in programs like UCAN that directly benefit our residents,” said Mayor Charles Gaylor. “By working together with United Way, we are creating a stronger safety net for families and individuals during times of uncertainty.”

The UCAN program, operated by United Way of Wayne County, provides a central point of access for individuals seeking help. By coordinating resources across community partners, UCAN ensures that assistance is provided efficiently, fairly, and with dignity. 

“We are deeply grateful for the City of Goldsboro’s commitment to supporting its residents in their greatest times of need,” said Sherry Archibald, Executive Director of United Way of Wayne County. “This funding will strengthen UCAN’s ability to respond quickly when families face a crisis and help prevent short-term challenges from becoming long-term instability.”

UCAN was created to address the need for support in filling gaps in resources.  It originated with support from the Duke Energy Foundation in 2023 and is now supported by individuals and businesses in the community interested in building a pathway to financial stability. The City of Goldsboro will be added to the list of sponsors, such as TA Loving, Seymour Funeral Home & Cremation Service and Duke Energy.

For more information about UCAN or how to receive assistance, residents may call 211 or visit www.unitedwayne.org.