Somerset County United Way is committed to improving the quality of life for all residents of SomersetCounty. Building on our expertise and experience in addressing community issues, Somerset County United Way is expanding its work to dig more deeply into pressing issues, identifying root causes, engaging new partners, and developing lasting solutions that will make life better here in Somerset County.
Within the Financial Stability effort, Somerset County United Way works with a variety of partners to provide assistance and resources to people in our community. Services include: free tax preparation for eligible tax payers, financial education, banking and savings information, matched savings program and an anti-poverty initiative.
Initiatives and Programs:
Creating Assets, Savings and Hope(C.A.$.H.) Initiative…an initiative designed to assist low and moderate income populations maximize resources to achieve financial independence.
Gifts of the Season Program…In partnership with the Food Bank of Somerset County and the Somerset County Board of Social Services, gift items are provided to over 5,000 individuals and families in need in Somerset County…
Wrapped in Love Program…New and gently used coats are collected throughout the community and distributed to thousands of people in need of a warm coat, hats, gloves and scarves during the winter…
Somerset County United Way also invests a portion of funds entrusted to it in programs that promote financial stability for individuals and families.
All funded programs must establish desired outcomes that are achievable, measurable and generate overall impact area outcomes. Listed below are examples of the types of services funded in financial stability and sample outcomes from some of those programs.
Achieving Financial Stability & Independence
Vision: Individuals and families in SomersetCounty are able to live independently and productively.
Programs that provide individuals and families with the education, services and skills to avoid homelessness, manage their finances, and build assets. Services include:
· Legal advice and advocacy services to promote independent living and access to needed services and resources
· Financial counseling and assistance
· Skills training for life, home and financial management
· Advocacy, education, community awareness and referral to support people striving for self sufficiency
· Shelter, counseling, education, and support for survivors of violence to enable them to regain control of their lives
Impact Area Outcomes
o Individuals and families move toward financial independence.
Sample program outcome:
§ Clients will enhance their budgeting knowledge and demonstrate their ability to pay their bills on time, maintain uninterrupted utility service, maintain their housing.
o Individuals and families earn a sustaining wage.
Sample program outcome:
§ Clients obtain and preserve essential needs critical for self-sufficiency (shelter and housing, sustainable income, assets necessary for self-sufficiency, family relationships, personal safety, education and autonomy).
o Individuals and families build appreciating assets.
Sample program outcomes:
§ Clients have the information, resources and skills to start addressing and overcoming their housing hurdles.
§ Families maintain residence in their own rental housing and continue building assets to secure adequate permanent housing.