Letter: Editorial is correct; Wallethub is wrong about Miami

We couldn’t agree more with [the Miami Herald’s Dec. 18 editorial, “Miamians are not mean, WalletHub, we’re passionate:”] your December 18 editorial, which highlights our community’s generosity and passion. To answer your question,

WalletHub never reached out to United Way, because if it they had, we would have been quick to share a few facts about Miamians and our commitment to each other and to our neighboring communities and countries.

United Way’s work is made possible by 52,000 residents across 250 corporations and local governments, including Publix, Miami-Dade County and Miami-Dade County Public Schools, plus an additional 360,000 students, who believe in working together to build a stronger, more resilient community. Like us, they believe a community thrives when working families can prosper.

Because of them, in 2019, United Way invested nearly $29.4 million in local programs to promote healthy living for all ages, accelerate economic mobility and empower children and families through education. This includes our investment in more than 100 local programs at 56 agency partners.

We also would highlight our unified response to natural disasters, whether they occur in our backyard or around the world.

Most recently, through Operation Helping Hands, the community donated more than $1.5 million, while 1,310 residents volunteered 5,389 hours to gather, sort and pack donated goods to help the Bahamas recover after Hurricane Dorian.

Just like we gather at Art Basel, we also come together in critical times of need.

We call that compassion, and we’ve stepped up since the Great Hurricane of 1926.

We also agree, “there’s always room for improvement,” and we should use our blinkers, eat our greens, recycle, help our elders and volunteer more. WalletHub’s list doesn’t define us. Let’s continue to show who we are through service and philanthropy.

Maria C. Alonso,

president, CEO,

United Way of Miami-Dade