Jenni Marsh: We Can Rise to the Challenge, Supporting the Most Vulnerable Among Us

Heart of Indiana United Way President & CEO Jenni Marsh.Heart of Indiana United Way President & CEO Jenni Marsh.

By: Jenni Marsh, President & CEOUnited Way of Delaware, Henry and Randolph Counties—

Muncie, IN—These are tough times. But on days when you feel most helpless, you actually have the most power to help others.

Like the people of east central Indiana have always done in times of crisis, we can rise to the challenge, supporting the most vulnerable among us.

As events are cancelled, sales plummet, and businesses shutter, our communities’ struggling working families face sudden economic challenges. Workers are losing wages and tips. Kids are missing school and the critical interactions and web of support they have there. Parents must make a lot of tough choices—not the least of which is about childcare so they can continue to work.

For more than 90 years, United Way of Delaware, Henry and Randolph Counties has stepped up when the community needs us. Now, we recognize a looming crisis, growing alongside the one in health care. We expect community resources to be inundated. Food pantries and assistance will be in high demand and calls for help are already pouring in.

United Way is working to marshal and mobilize local resources to reach those in crisis. But we need you to step up, too.

The United Way COVID-19 Economic Recovery Fund assists local nonprofits that support struggling working families within our three counties who are encountering sudden financial hardship amidst the economic fallout from the pandemic. Donations will support relief programs and services to help with vital needs.

Already from this fund, we have made seven grants to assist with:

  • Childcare for emergency and medical health employees who are putting in extra hours and extra risk to serve our community
  • Purchasing equipment to ensure volunteers’ and clients’ safety as food is delivered to the elderly and home-bound
  • Utility assistance for families struggling with lost wages and other challenges
  • Support for our homeless shelters
  • Food distributions for families struggling to make ends meet

A gift to the COVID-19 Economic Recovery Fund is the best way to join the fight for the health and financial stability of all Americans. As social distancing becomes our new normal, a donation can transcend isolation and help support those most in need.

Today, you can answer the call for compassion, for connection. In a time of uncertainty, you can share the gift of hope. Learn more at InvitedToLiveUnited.org.

 

About United Way of Delaware, Henry and Randolph Counties

United Way of Delaware, Henry and Randolph Counties fights for the health, education and financial stability of every person in every community. Using community input, the non-profit crafts local impact plans that work to end generational poverty. In Delaware County, United Way is working to put children on a pathway out of poverty by making sure they are reading at or above grade level by the end of their third-grade year—the single greatest predictor of success in school and life. Learn more at InvitedToLiveUnited.org.