A Regional Guide for Prioritizing Resources, Investment and Action

United Way of Greater St. Louis regularly assesses community conditions to identify where needs are greatest and help ensure the region’s resources are aligned where they can make the greatest difference.

The 2026 assessment process aimed to clarify the different ways needs are experienced within one of United Way’s five impact areas and offers a broad picture of community conditions at a regional level. The findings will serve as a guide for those committed to improving conditions for their neighbors.

The full report explores both local and national benchmarks in comparison to current conditions in the region and what patterns emerge across households and communities within United Way’s 16 county footprint.  The 211 Counts Dashboard informed regional context of needs. The dashboard compiles data based on calls received on the 211 information and referral helpline and serves as a real-time indicator of the community’s current needs on any given day. Click here to explore the dashboard. The full 2026 Community Needs Assessment report will be released and available in September 2026.