United Way Expands Strong Neighborhoods, Strong Families to Third New
School Building Through Community and Corporate Partnership
CANTON, OHIO (OCTOBER 13, 2026) – United Way of Greater Stark County and Canton City School District
celebrated the expansion of Strong Neighborhoods, Strong Families to Summit Elementary School with a ribbon
cutting on October 1. Summit is the third school to join the initiative this year, marking another step in a broader
effort to bring practical, school-based support closer to children and families.
Strong Neighborhoods, Strong Families meets families where they are, builds on their strengths and connects
them with support. The expansion reflects a growing investment in stable families, trusted relationships and help
in places families already know.
The ribbon cutting brought together school leaders, funders, corporate partners and community organizations
whose shared support made the Summit launch possible. The partnership shows what can happen when schools,
nonprofits and local businesses invest together in children and families.
“Expanding to a third new school this year puts trusted support closer to more children and families,” said Angela
Perisic, President & CEO of United Way of Greater Stark County. “This work is only possible because schools,
businesses, funders and community partners are investing together in family stability and children’s success.
At Summit Elementary, a United Way Neighborhood School Coordinator will help families identify needs, navigate
resources, and access support for housing, food, transportation, parenting and other needs that affect family
stability and children’s ability to thrive.
The Summit launch builds on work underway at Alliance Preschool, Alliance Early Learning School, Alliance
Elementary, Massillon East and West Elementaries and Youtz Elementary. Across these schools, United Way
helps families build connections and find solutions that fit their circumstances.
United Way is grateful to Canton City School District, Summit Elementary, Marathon Petroleum Company – Ohio
Refining Division and the funders and community partners whose investment strengthens support around local
families. To learn about business partnership opportunities, contact United Way of Greater Stark County at (330)
491-9974. Summit Elementary families can reach the Neighborhood School Coordinator through the school office
or (330) 491-9978.
About United Way of Greater Stark County: United Way of Greater Stark County builds community
capacity to alleviate the impact of poverty and empower families to unleash their potential. Through
school-based programming and community partnerships, United Way connects children and families with
resources that help build skills, strengthen relationships and provide immediate economic support.
Media Contact:
Carrie Clemens
Chief Advancement Officer
United Way of Greater Stark County
Phone: (330) 491-9974
Email: [email protected]
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