Aid to Distressed Families of Appalachian Counties (ADFAC) is an independent, non-profit agency serving Anderson County residents, including helping families in urgent need with basic survival necessities and helping to preserve/improve existing housing.
They graciously shared stories of some of the families that were assisted with United Way of Anderson County funds. The names and any identifying information have been changed to ensure confidentiality.
Mr. and Mrs. Brown are a couple in their 40’s with three teenage sons who requested rent assistance. Mr. Brown was recently laid off and Mrs. Brown’s income fluctuates depending on whether school is in session. At the time of their request, the only family income was Mr. Brown’s unemployment; the couple normally managed but had fallen behind on their rent due to the drop in income. This family needed help getting them through this temporary crisis. Mr. Brown had an interview for another job and United Way funds enabled us to stabilize this family by paying part of their rent during this time of transition. The Browns were assisted last June and have not needed further help.
United Way funds also enabled us to assist 36 year old Susan Smith, her 3 three children and her fiancé with first time rent assistance. The fiancé was signed up with the local union and once employed the family would be able to meet expenses on his income. Their landlord agreed to work with the family because of ADFAC’s rent assistance. This assistance stabilized the family and they have not needed further assistance.
Mr. and Mrs. West are a middle age couple with two children at home that requested first time utility assistance. Mrs. West is physically disabled due to an accident and is applying for disability. Mr. West works full time but pays almost $600 a month for medical coverage, and although the family keeps a very frugal budget, they are just managing. A leak in their hot water heater led to exceptionally high water and electric bills that far exceeded what their budget could handle. United Way funds enabled this family to maintain utilities during this financial crisis.
United Way funds also enabled us to provide first time rental assistance to a 30 year old separated woman, Mary, and her son. She is one of our working poor, working full time at $7.25 an hour. Mary receives no child support but still managed until unexpected car repairs were needed. Mary plans to pursue getting her GED and trying to provide a better life for herself and son.
Mr. and Mrs. North are a couple in their late 40’s that requested utility assistance. They are struggling to take care of their 3 young grandchildren of whom they have custody due to their parents’ addiction to meth. Mr. North was recently let go from his job of 15 years and because he is illiterate, it is difficult for him to find other employment. The couple is struggling to survive on Mrs. North’s disability (based on physical problems) and Families First. United Way Funds helped pay the utility bill while the family was counseled on additional resources and Mr. North continued to look for work.
UWAC would like to thank the community for your donations. Through your generosity funds enabled 86 families to keep from being evicted, foreclosed upon or having their utilities terminated; provided stability and hope during times of crisis and high emotional stress. Truly, it made a tremendous difference in the lives of these families. On behalf of those we serve, we thank you!