Every Sunday, half of our non-pledge collection goes toward supporting local non-profit organizations that are doing good for others, protecting our environment, and addressing humanitarian issues.

The recipient in January is "Independent Living for Young Adults."

When youth age out of the child welfare system, they face many challenges, such as finding adequate housing, establishing social supports, connecting to caring adults, finding employment, affording further schooling, and securing financial resources for basic or emergency needs.  Members of the First Unitarian Church of Wilmington formed ILYA to work in partnership with the State of Delaware’s Division of Family Services, and has served youth and young adults exiting the foster care system in Delaware since 2005.

ILYA teams of volunteers are comprised of church members and community friends. They support young people taking steps toward independence by supplementing the work of the State with meaningful and practical projects and resources. Examples of projects include Student Care Packages, Holiday Giving, New Apartment Kits, Graduation Parties, Apartment Furniture and more.