Economic Mobility
Building Bridges for Financial Success
Creating Pathways to Financial Security
In the face of the widening economic disparities in our region, United Way of San Diego County (UWSD) remains dedicated to providing essential financial resources and creating pathways for economic mobility that can profoundly impact the lives of those struggling to make ends meet. As part of our efforts to enhance economic mobility, we actively lead initiatives such as the San Diego County Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) Coalition, SparkPoint, and the Bank On San Diego Coalition.
31%
of San Diego County households do not earn enough money to make ends meet according to the Real Cost Measure study.
97%
of households below the Real Cost Measure in San Diego County have at least one working adult.
$116,036
is what a household of four must earn to meet their basic needs living in San Diego County.
Free Tax Filing Assistance
Our dedication to uplifting the economic mobility of San Diegans is clear through our leadership of the San Diego County Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) Coalition, which helps low- to moderate-income individuals and families file their taxes for free, claim eligible tax credits, and maximize their refunds. Amid economic hardship, the extra funds from tax credits help individuals and families ease financial burdens.
Financial Coaching
SparkPoint employs a client-led, family-centered approach to assist low-income individuals and families in achieving financial stability and prosperity. Financial coaches work closely with clients to set and pursue personalized financial goals, ranging from increasing income to reducing debt, using a trauma-informed and equity-centered model.
Access to Banks and Financial Services
Led by UWSD, the Bank On San Diego Coalition enhances the financial stability of low- and middle-income individuals and families by providing access to safe and affordable financial services for underbanked and unbanked community members across the county.
ShortFall Financial Hardship Simulator
To demonstrate the challenges of navigating life in San Diego County amidst economic hardship and limited resources, we've developed ShortFall, a financial simulator. Our aim is to provide insight into the harsh financial realities and tough choices confronting numerous individuals and families in San Diego County every day.
This money will pay for groceries, rent, laundry, and bills.
- Adelia, mother and San Diego County EITC Coalition Client
“These services are so helpful for low-income families.”
- Jose, San Diego County EITC Coalition ClientÂ
I really appreciate having a professional tax preparer help with my taxes. It really eases the burden in an already stressful situation to know that it is done correctly and provided free of charge.
- Cecilia, San Diego County EITC Coalition Client
Building Pathways for All San Diegans to Thrive
Each year, UWSD experiences firsthand the profound personal impact these services have on San Diegans who are struggling financially. Through our economic mobility programs and services, we put money back into the pockets of individuals and families and build pathways for financial stability.
48,793+
federal and state returns filed through the San Diego County EITC Coalition in 2024.
$39.7 million+
in federal and state refunds returned to San Diego County in 2024.
115
individuals have received financial education services through SparkPoint from April-December 2024.
Make an Impact Today
Donate today to create a lasting impact on the lives of thousands of San Diegans throughout the county. Whether you choose to make a one-time contribution or become a monthly donor, your generosity drives our mission to close gaps in our community through economic mobility and education initiatives.