6 Union City Nonprofits and Community Groups to Know

Union City is one of the most densely populated cities in the country, and that closeness shows up in how neighbors look out for each other. Our team rounded up six Union City nonprofits and community groups in Hudson County, NJ that run a shelter and soup kitchen, support families living with dementia, empower immigrant women, advocate for people with disabilities and keep local clinics open to all. Each one welcomes volunteers, donations or a friendly hello.

1. Palisades Emergency Residence Corporation (PERC)

PERC, at 111 37th Street in Union City, provides emergency shelter, hot meals, a public food pantry and case management for people experiencing homelessness. Its soup kitchen serves guests Monday through Friday, and the shelter is open around the clock. Volunteer or donate through the PERC website, and read our earlier look at how PERC serves Union City.

2. Act Now Foundation

Act Now Foundation, on 38th Street in Union City, has worked since 2012 to raise awareness about Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. The 501(c)(3) offers cognitive assessments, caregiver support groups in English and Spanish, long term care planning and dementia education, and its services are free for Hudson and Bergen residents. Find programs, events and volunteer options on the Act Now Foundation website.

3. Save Latin America

Save Latin America, at 138 39th Street, is a multipurpose 501(c)(3) that helps low and moderate income families in Union City and across Hudson County. Its team connects residents with health screenings and insurance, education, legal and employment resources, public assistance programs and citizenship applications. Volunteer, sponsor or donate on the Save Latin America website.

4. NACAW New Jersey

The New Jersey chapter of the National Association of Cuban American Women is a 501(c)(3) based on 38th Street in Union City. Its mission is to support Hispanic immigrant women, children and families by promoting Hispanic culture, building strong social networks and opening doors to jobs. Learn about events and volunteering on the NACAW NJ website.

5. The Arc of Hudson County

The Arc of Hudson County, based in Union City, opened in 1997 to serve children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. It runs day and employment programs, an after school program, adult evening care, recreation and a family support group, and advocates for full inclusion in the community. Donate or learn more on The Arc of Hudson County website.

6. North Hudson Community Action Corporation

Headquartered on 31st Street in Union City, North Hudson Community Action Corporation has been helping neighbors since 1965. Its health centers offer medical, dental and mental health care, and the nonprofit also runs Head Start, WIC, housing counseling, tax help and employment services. See services and locations on the NHCAC website.

More in Union City

Make a day of it with our guide to things to do in Union City and our picks for the best restaurants in Union City. Want to help in other towns? See our lists of North Bergen nonprofits and Secaucus nonprofits.

Support Union City Close to Home

These groups run on volunteers, donors and neighbors who show up. Know a Union City organization or business that deserves a shout? Nominate it in the Best of Hudson County 2026 awards, and subscribe to our free newsletter for weekly local picks.

Featured image: Shop Hudson County, with logos from each organization’s website.