October 19–25, 2026
Your everyday purchases can make a difference right here at home.
This October, United Way of St. Johns and Putnam Counties is bringing local businesses and our community together for Shop Local. Support Local Families. — a week-long event that turns everyday spending into support for local working families struggling to make ends meet.
Today, 1 in 3 families in St. Johns County and 1 in 2 in Putnam County are struggling to keep up with the rising cost of living. Every week, United Way receives thousands of dollars in emergency assistance requests from working families just one unexpected expense away from crisis.
Recently, a woman battling breast cancer fell behind on her car payments as medical bills mounted. She was working, but couldn’t keep up and feared losing the car she depended on. United Way stepped in and got her caught up.
During Shop Local. Support Local Families., participating restaurants, coffee shops, boutiques, salons, retailers and attractions will give back a portion of sales. By shopping local, you’ll support local businesses while helping neighbors when they need it most.
One week. Local businesses. A stronger community.
When you shop local, you can help lift local families
From October 19–25, participating businesses will offer special promotions, featured products, give-back nights and other opportunities to support United Way.
Depending on the business, participating options may include:
- 5%–10% of sales donated to United Way
- A portion of sales from a featured product
- One designated day or evening of proceeds
- Exclusive shopping events and promotions
- Special “give-back” products created just for the campaign
Every purchase has a purpose.
Your support helps United Way invest in programs and resources that strengthen local families and help people move toward financial stability.
When you shop local, you’re not just supporting a business. You’re helping support a neighbor.
Are You a Local Business?
Join Shop Local. Support Local Families.
Want to turn your customers into community champions?
We’re inviting businesses across St. Johns and Putnam County to participate in this week of giving.
Whether you’re a restaurant, boutique, coffee shop, salon, brewery, florist, retailer, attraction or another consumer-facing business, there’s a way for you to participate.
Choose the Give-Back Option That Works for You
Retail Give Back
Host a special shopping event or promotion and donate a portion of sales to United Way.
Signature Product Campaign
Create a limited-time product with a portion of proceeds benefiting United Way — like a special cookie, coffee blend, bouquet, dessert or other signature item.
Food Service Give Back
Choose one day or evening to donate a percentage of sales when customers mention United Way.
Shop Local Give Back
Donate 5%–10% of sales throughout the week, or designate one day’s proceeds to support local families.
Why Participate?
Shop Local. Support Local Families. gives your business an opportunity to:
- Reach new customers
- Drive traffic during a typically slower period
- Increase sales and product exposure
- Be featured on United Way's social media and email channels
- Receive local media exposure
- Connect with other local businesses
- Show your customers that your business cares about the community
Participating businesses will receive a campaign participation kit with social media graphics, suggested posts, email copy, campaign messaging and downloadable signage to make participation easy.
Ready to Join?
Become a Participating Business
Complete the quick sign-up form below and a member of the United Way team will follow up with the next steps.
There is no complicated application process and no one-size-fits-all requirement. Choose the participation option that works best for your business and your customers.