Nonprofits Hold Our Communities Together 

Whether you know it or not, nonprofits touch all of our lives. Our community’s network of nonprofit organizations is a core part of our economy and keeps us healthy and strong.  

Nonprofit services are for everyone: People across our community, no matter their age, income level, or cultural background, rely on nonprofits for health and social care services. Nonprofits provide early childhood programs that help our kids grow and thrive and give parents peace of mind while they work. Older adults and people with disabilities rely on them for home-delivered meals, home health care, social programs, and more. Community health centers and other health care providers provide high-quality, affordable health care for people across the region.

Nonprofits are an economic engine: According to the New York Council of Nonprofits, 16.8 percent of New York State residents are employed by more than 33,000 nonprofits. In Western New York alone, more than 85,000 people work at nonprofit organizations. In some areas, health care providers make up the largest employers. These hospitals and clinics keep surrounding businesses, including stores and restaurants, thriving. 

Nonprofits are efficient collaborators: Because these organizations are accustomed to working on slim budgets and limited resources, nonprofits are adept at and motivated to collaborate with other agencies to streamline services and improve efficiencies. Rather than competing for the bottom line, nonprofit groups work together for the greater good.

Our nonprofit partners are at risk—and therefore, so is our community. 

Since January 2025, federal funding cuts have caused irreparable harm to nonprofit networks in central and western New York. Some of the immediate effects include having to pause plans for growth or expansion, prepare for layoffs and service reductions, budget for funding cuts and higher inflation, and explore alternative revenue strategies. 

These disruptions have, in turn, had a profound effect on our community members.  

As a direct result of the loss of funding: 

• Individuals and families have experienced service disruptions and may face the prospect of decreased access to safe housing, healthy food, and reliable medical care 

• Older community members are at risk of losing in-home care and home-delivered meals 

• Family caregivers will need to take on more responsibilities 

• Children will miss out on early childhood programs like Head Start as well as afterschool programs  

• With the loss of childcare support, parents and guardians will have to balance taking care of their kids and doing their jobs 

Because nonprofits from all sectors routinely collaborate with each other, there is a strong ripple effect. If one organization experiences a disruption or has to close, others are affected. Ultimately, it’s the people they serve who will be hurt the most. 

We invite you to stay connected and get the latest information on the community impact of federal funding cuts. Our network of nonprofits is committed to sharing information—and working together to find solutions. 

Sign Up to Receive Updates 

Our community of nonprofits is continuing to work together to meet needs in these challenging times. If you’d like to sign up to be updated on advocacy opportunities and other news about this work, please add your information below.

Looking for another way to support your local nonprofits? Check out Give 716.