Support
2-1-1 resource connection
A starting point for food, housing, health care, transportation, and other local resources.
Find supportOur work
Local programs.
Room to thrive.
Explore resources and opportunities for children, families, and neighbors throughout Lee County.
Education
Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library
Free books mailed monthly to enrolled Lee County children from birth until their fifth birthday.
Explore free booksFood access
Summer Eats
A seasonal meal program for children and teens. Find program information and check the latest serving schedule.
Explore Summer EatsEducation
Little Libraries
Discover another way United Way supports access to books in our community.
Explore Little LibrariesEarly learning
A new book.
A new adventure.
Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library mails an age-appropriate book each month to enrolled children. Lee County families can participate at no cost.
Is my child eligible?
- Lives in Lee County, Illinois
- Is younger than five
Books continue until your child turns five while you live in a covered area. Allow 8–12 weeks for the first book.
Enrollment informationVisit the official program page to register or check coverage outside Lee County.
Seasonal food access
Summer Eats.
Summer Eats provides meals for children and teens ages 18 and under. The published program requires no registration or ID.
The 2026 summer season has ended. Check the official program page for the next season’s dates and locations.
Check program updatesNeed food resources now?
You can connect with 211 for help finding available food and other support near you.
Find food resourcesWant to help next season?
Contact United Way about packing, serving, and sponsorship opportunities.
Contact the teamAccess to reading
Little Libraries.
More possibilities.
Explore United Way’s Little Libraries initiative and learn how to connect with this local reading resource.
Little Libraries informationCommunity partnerships
Stronger through connection.
United Way works alongside local nonprofit organizations. Explore the current partner directory and connect with an agency.
View agency partnersYour community. Your way to help.
Good things happen
when we show up.
Give, volunteer, or bring your workplace together. There’s a place for you in this work.
Find your way to get involved