Why do some programs/services supported by United Way charge a fee?
The concept behind United Way is that health and human services should be available to anyone who needs them. Because people who need help are from various income levels, many programs supported by United Way charge on a sliding fee scale that allows clients to pay based on their ability. That fee helps to subsidize the services for those who cannot afford to pay. United Way helps fund programs for those who cannot afford the service. For example, United Way funds agency programs at YMCA and Boy Scouts/Girl Scouts to allow low-income and underprivileged youth to participate in the recreational and character-building activities offered by these agencies.
