Sarah Tucci

United Way of Indian River County

(772) 567-8900, ext. 111

Sarah.Tucci@UnitedWayIRC.org   

 

  

VERO BEACH, March 23, 2026 – United Way of Indian River County’s ANCHOR initiative has provided two commercial washer and dryer sets to The Salvation Army, strengthening shelter operation and supporting disaster readiness across Indian River County.

 

The Salvation Army, in partnership with Indian River County Emergency Management, operates the county’s Cold Weather Shelter, which activates during periods of extreme cold to protects the community’s most vulnerable. During this season’s unprecedented cold weather events, the shelter has already served more than 190 individuals seeking safety and warmth.

 

As shelter operations expanded across multiple activations this year, access to on-site laundry facilities became essential to maintaining clean, safe, and dignified conditions for guests. The ANCHOR initiative stepped in to fund the purchase of the equipment, affectionately known as Cycle of Hope, ensuring the shelter could meet increased demand during cold weather events while enhancing readiness for future emergency sheltering needs.

 

“Having these washer and dryer units on-site makes a huge difference for the people we serve,” said Major Phillip Irish, The Salvation Army. “Cycle of Hope allows us to provide clean blankets, pillows, and bedding to every guest, helping they stay safe, warm, and comfortable during extreme cold. We are grateful to United Way’s ANCHOR initiative for supporting our shelter operations and helping us care for our community when it matters most.”

 

ANCHOR, the Action Network for Community Hope and Organized Recovery, is a United Way initiative and the county’s designated Long-Term Recovery Group (LTRG), bringing together local nonprofits, organizations, businesses, and government partners to support disaster recovery and strengthen community preparedness before emergencies occur.

 

“Our focus is on making sure partners have what they need to serve people well, whether during an active emergency or in preparation for the next one, said Meredith Egan, Chief Executive Officer at United Way of Indian River County. “This investment strengthens the day-to-day operations that become critical when conditions change.

 

 

 

The Action Network for Community Hope and Organized Recovery (ANCHOR) is an initiative of United Way of Indian River County and serves as the county’s designated Long-Term Recovery Group (LTRG). ANCHOR coordinated community partners to support disaster recover, preparedness, and long-term resiliency for Indian River County Residents. To learn more or get involved, visit UnitedWayIRC.org or contact Alexandra Black at Alexandra.Black@UnitedWayIRC.org or (772) 567-8900, ext. 116.

  

About United Way of Indian River County 

United Way of Indian River County (UWIRC) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that fights for the health, education, and financial stability of every community member. United Way works with local programs to provide resources to individuals and families in crisis today while working year-round to improve community conditions and create lasting solutions. We are effectively building a strong foundation and improving lives by mobilizing the caring power of our community. For more information about your local United Way, please call (772) 567-8900 or visit our website, UnitedWayIRC.org.    

 Representatives from United Way of Indian River County and The Salvation Army stand in front of the newly installed washer and dryer units featuring “Cycle of Hope” signage at The Salvation Army shelter.

 

From left to right: Flavia Souza-Pereira, Meredith Egan, Mike Smilovich, Major Lynn Irish, Major Phillip Irish, Dustin Vangeison, and Alexandra Black.