By Ashley Ludwig / Patch
Photo by Shutterstock
Originally published in Patch.
Families on the brink of homelessness in time of coronavirus are helped across OC, thanks to the United Way $500 emergency debit cards.
ORANGE COUNTY, CA — As the nation responds to the coronavirus pandemic, Orange County United Way is responding to the needs of the community by launching its ‘OC Family to Family’ Campaign, dedicated completely to homelessness prevention efforts.
Donations of any size will be immediately put toward a $500 emergency debit card and given to an Orange County family on the brink of homelessness who needs financial assistance with rent, utilities, food, or other basic needs during the COVID-19 pandemic. The campaign goal is to raise $1M to help 2,000 families in need due to job loss and income reduction from the current health crisis.
This campaign is part of Orange County United Way’s broader efforts to raise much-needed dollars for a Pandemic Relief Fund, which supports low-income individuals and families at imminent risk of homelessness, the current Orange County population experiencing homelessness, and vital social and human services.
“As we take steps to protect ourselves and our loved ones from the dangers posed by COVID-19, it is imperative that we also take immediate steps to protect the livelihood of our Orange County community,” said Sue Parks, CEO of Orange County United Way. “There are many families struggling to make ends meet right now due to job loss or temporary layoffs. Our hope is that this money will help them make monthly rent and utility payments, or buy groceries. We’re grateful for support from the community and know we’ll be able to help many people.”
In the last three weeks, a pilot program has been initiated and executed, utilizing a portion of the Pandemic Relief Fund donations. Orange County United Way has worked with 21 service providers to help nearly 564 households remain housed.
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