Merchants Bonding Company Steps Up to Support United Way
November 4, 2025
The growing need in communities across the country makes commitments to United Way more important than ever—and Merchants Bonding Company™ is proud to continue its long-standing support of United Way’s mission to strengthen communities and help families thrive.
A Season of Giving Kicked Off at Merchants
Each year, Merchants Bonding Company launches its United Way participation campaign during the company’s annual Halloween celebration, and this year was no different. What was different, however, was the urgency behind United Way’s message, and their call for organizations and individuals to step up their support.
United Way representative Laura Nielsen joined Merchants’ associates to share sobering data about the increasing number of families struggling to afford basic necessities like housing, childcare, food, transportation, healthcare, and technology.
Understanding the ALICE Framework
To better illustrate the challenge, United Way uses the ALICE framework, which stands for:
-
Asset Limited: No safety net in times of crisis.
-
Income Constrained: Income falls short of basic essentials.
-
Employed: Working, yet not earning enough to make ends meet.
In Central Iowa, 1 in 3 households now falls below the ALICE Survival Threshold, which is just above the Federal Poverty Level—a staggering indicator of how many families are struggling despite being employed.
That massive and growing need is why United Way is urging everyone who can to “Step Up.”
“Supporting United Way isn't just about giving,” said Larry Taylor, Merchants’ Chairman of the Board and President. “It’s about standing together to strengthen our communities. Every dollar we contribute helps a neighbor in need, a child succeed in school, or a family stay in their home. At Merchants, we're committed to making a difference through United Way, and I encourage others to join me in stepping up their support this year.”
Local Support with a National Reach
United Way’s community-based model is a natural fit for Merchants' associates. Located across the country, they're able to participate in the campaign and direct their donations to their local United Way chapters, ensuring that each contribution supports the communities where they live and work.
Making a Difference Together
The Merchants Bonding Company United Way campaign runs through the month of November, continuing a long-standing tradition of giving back and making a tangible impact in communities nationwide.
Through this campaign, Merchants’ associates demonstrate that when businesses and individuals come together for a common cause, it can drive powerful change resulting in sustainable solutions with lasting, positive impact.
DONATE NOW:
If you'd like to make a donation to United Way of Central Iowa, CLICK HERE
If you'd like to make a donation to United Way, CLICK HERE