United Way Opens Applications for WomenRise Program
Over $110,000 will be distributed to local single moms
RICHMOND, Va. (April 15, 2025) – United Way of Greater Richmond & Petersburg is excited to announce the opening of its annual WomenRise scholarship program, designed to empower single mothers by eliminating the financial barrier of childcare costs while they pursue their college degree or professional credentials.
This year, the program will award a total of $110,000 in childcare scholarships to single mothers across the United Way’s thirteen localities. These scholarships are a critical step in addressing the rising cost of childcare in Virginia, where the average annual cost for infant care is $14,277- nearly half the median income for single mothers.
For ALICE families – Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed – this can put stability just out of reach. WomenRise scholarships cover the cost of childcare and other eligible expenses while mothers work toward the completion of a college degree or professional credential. The length of the scholarships varies depending on the recipients’ individual education plans.
“In our region, 81% of single female-headed households are living below the ALICE threshold, meaning they do not earn enough to meet the basic cost of living,” said Katina Williams, Chief Impact Officer at United Way of Greater Richmond & Petersburg. “When we remove barriers like the high cost of childcare and open doors to educational opportunities, we give these mothers a real chance to secure family-sustaining incomes. This support lays the foundation for long-term stability and creates a path for their families to not just survive but truly thrive.”
WomenRise goes beyond financial support. In addition to childcare scholarships, participants benefit from mentorship, access to educational resources, emergency financial assistance, and a supportive network of women working toward similar goals.
“This innovative program is working to improve educational outcomes for our local families,” said Barbara Couto Sipe, President & CEO of United Way of Greater Richmond & Petersburg. “I’m proud that we offer WomenRise to help moms achieve their dreams. Thanks to our donors and philanthropy partners, United Way can come alongside these moms to support a pathway to financial stability.”
To learn more about the WomenRise program or to apply, visit United Way’s website.
United Way of Greater Richmond & Petersburg is also seeking donations from local individuals, businesses, and organizations to sustain the WomenRise program and expand its impact. The upcoming fundraising phase will be critical in determining the number of WomenRise scholarship recipients and the amount of each scholarship. Your financial support will directly help single mothers achieve educational success and secure a better future for their families. Visit www.yourunitedway.org/donate or email womenrise@yourunitedway.org to get involved.
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About United Way of Greater Richmond & Petersburg
United Way of Greater Richmond & Petersburg is dedicated to improving lives and mobilizing the caring power of communities. Working hand in hand with nonprofit partners, donors, and volunteers, United Way unites resources from the community to deliver effective programs and initiatives that create positive, lasting change. This reach extends across 13 diverse localities, encompassing the cities of Richmond, Petersburg, Hopewell, and Colonial Heights, as well as the counties of Charles City, Chesterfield, Dinwiddie, Goochland, Hanover, Henrico, New Kent, Powhatan, and Prince George. Learn more at www.YourUnitedWay.org. [yourunitedway.org]
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