There is no better way to fully understand the impact of the United Way of Greater Mercer County than through the stories of the people we assist.
Fear of being judged can make it difficult to ask for help.
Andrea*, a mother of a young daughter, and a victim of domestic violence was reluctant to tell her story but she knew that if there were any chance of getting the help she needed, sharing her circumstance was worth the discomfort.
Andrea came looking for assistance with food but decided to take advantage of other available resources and enrolled in health insurance for herself and her daughter. Our Benefits Team made a referral to domestic violence services and helped Andrea find safe and affordable housing.
“Thank you, United Way for being in the community. I did not know where to go. I came for food, but I received so much more.”
– Andrea, program client
Help is one call away.
When you do not have family support or have lost a loved one it can be overwhelming.
Jack*, who was elderly and disabled was reluctant to contact us. He had recently lost his spouse to COVID-19 and was unable to pay for his daily medications. He decided he had nowhere else to go and made the call.
“I don’t know what else to do. I have been calling the pharmacy and trying to get my medication all day and they can’t help me,” Jack told our Benefits Enroller. With the help of our Benefits Team, he got his medications the next day and because of his age received prescription savings. It turned out he was also eligible for food assistance (NJ SNAP), free meal delivery, and rental assistance.
As a result of the call to our Benefits Enroller, Jack is now receiving daily meals, life-sustaining medications, and financial assistance to improve his quality of life.
*At United Way of Greater Mercer County, we respect everyone who comes to us for help. So, while individual stories are true, client names, identifying details, and images have been changed to protect their privacy. Thank you for understanding.
