The Giving Fund identifies local families and individuals in need of special assistance during the holiday season.
For 13 years, United Way of Coastal and Western Connecticut has partnered with The News-Times on The Giving Fund, a community holiday program that identifies local families and individuals in need of financial assistance during the holiday season. Stories are published each week in The News-Times for six weeks, beginning at Thanksgiving. All funds received go directly to fund individual cases. Any funds contributed in excess of the amount required to fulfill Giving Fund cases will be directed to support the ALICE Fund, providing critical assistance to low-and moderate-income households.
2024 GIVING FUND CASES
Case 1
Lisa, a combat veteran, has faced life’s battles with unwavering resilience, both on the front lines and at home. Having served her country with honor, she now carries the invisible scars of war and the weight of challenges that have accumulated over the years.
In recent times, Lisa’s home has fallen into significant disrepair. While she received some assistance to fix her bathroom, her home remains drafty, leaving her vulnerable as winter’s chill approaches. Lisa is in desperate need of a new heat pump to ensure her home is warm and safe.
A generous gift of $1,500 will help offset the cost of replacing her heat pump, providing her with the warmth and comfort she needs during the cold months ahead. Your support can make a profound difference in Lisa’s life.
Case 2
For more than three decades, Carmen and Luis dedicated themselves to creating a stable and loving home for their three children. However, their world was upended when Luis suffered a workplace injury that cost him his job. Shortly after, a devastating car accident left him with a spinal injury, making it impossible for him to work. The once-reliable provider now faces the challenge of healing, while Carmen has taken on the overwhelming responsibility of caring for the family.
As the sole caretaker, Carmen juggles household expenses, supports their children—including one on the autism spectrum—and manages the family’s daily needs. Despite her tireless efforts, the family is now on the brink of losing their home, adding to the emotional and financial strain.
A gift of $1,500 would bring much-needed relief to Carmen and her family, helping to cover urgent medical expenses, essential car repairs, and other necessities. Your support could be the lifeline they need to keep their family together and stable during this incredibly challenging time.
Case 3
John’s journey has been anything but easy. Battling severe mental health challenges, he faced obstacles that could have derailed his dreams. But John’s resilience and determination to carve out a brighter future were nothing short of inspiring.
With hard work and perseverance, John secured a new job and was able to move into his own apartment, creating a space he could call home. Yet, a recent crisis has threatened to derail his progress. John’s car, essential for getting to work and maintaining his independence, urgently needs repairs.
A generous gift of $1,500 would be a lifeline for John, helping to cover car repairs, fuel, and basic necessities. Your support would not only ease his immediate financial burdens but also empower him to keep moving forward, holding on to the independence he’s worked so hard to achieve.
Case 4
For 22 years, Ana worked tirelessly, juggling multiple jobs to provide a stable and promising future for her daughters, Sarah and Amy. Her dedication and work ethic were unwavering as she built a life filled with hope and opportunities for her family.
But in 2018, Ana’s journey took an unexpected turn. A workplace injury left her with chronic pain, reshaping her daily reality. Despite two surgeries, the pain persisted, forcing Ana to leave her nursing career—a profession she loved deeply. Today, Ana continues to face significant challenges as she strives to create a secure life for her daughters.
A $1,500 gift would provide critical relief, helping Ana cover mounting health expenses. Your support would offer her and her daughters the stability they so desperately need.
Case 5
Marisol is the embodiment of resilience and selflessness, balancing her own challenges while uplifting others. Each month, she faces the harsh realities of financial strain, as her rent, copays, groceries, and car expenses stretch her budget to its limit. On top of this, she bears the responsibility of covering medical care and expenses for her aging parents, a testament to her unwavering commitment to family despite her own financial struggles.
A gift of $1,500 would provide Marisol with much-needed relief. It would help her cover car repairs, purchase groceries, pay for medical copays, and take care of essential needs. Your generosity can profoundly impact Marisol's journey.
OUR IMPACT
FOR MORE INFORMATION
For more information on the Giving Fund, contact Archeline Youte at archeline.youte@unitedwaycwc.org.