GivingTuesday is about small acts of generosity changing the world. That may seem like an impossible dream, but we’ve actually been doing it for decades. Still, there’s more work to be done, especially given the devastation we’ve experienced this past year.
At the beginning of the year, none of us were prepared for what we would confront. And no one knew how many in our community would need our help. Faced with a once-in-a-generation challenge, Tri-County United Way stepped up. United Way staff, donors, volunteers and our entire community came together in an unprecedented way. We helped our neighbors who were most impacted by the global pandemic and economic downturn get the relief and support they needed.
- Our 211 health and human services crisis helpline call center fielded over 6,000 calls from Warren & Washington County as the COVID-19 pandemic was starting to impact our local families
- As food insecurity grew, we supported 40+ local food pantries and participated in local drive-through food pantries with the Salvation Army and the Northeast Dairy Association. Our Stuff the Bus program collected over 8 tons of food and fed 20+ local food pantry patrons
- Our VITA Free Tax Service helped more than 1800 local families file taxes and maximize refunds and credits totaling $3.2 million.
- Kids with Packs – preparing kids for success – we distributed close to 1000 back packs with school supplies to 17 schools.
- RSVP (Retired Senior & Volunteer Program) The RSVP Medical Transportation Program is just one of the vital services our RSVP volunteers provide. Our drivers give rides to seniors who have no other means of getting to medical appointments.
- Our COVID-19 Community Response & Recovery Fund received over $53,000 from 100+ donors. To date, we’ve distributed these funds to local nonprofits supporting basic needs for those most impacted by the pandemic
But there is so much more to do. Many in our community still struggle with unemployment, food insecurity, housing and health challenges. Many don’t know where their next meal is coming from, or how they will pay the rent or the bills. Even more are teetering on the edge without back-up savings. Kids are struggling with an unconventional school year. Adults are facing mental health challenges like anxiety and depression.
All of our tomorrows depend on what we do today. Give to Tri-County United Way to build a better tomorrow.
