Pandemic Has Tested United Way Of Lake County’s Strength

United Way of Lake County has been focused on solving big community problems for nearly 75 years, and those problems are magnified now. While the pandemic has tested our collective strength, it hasn’t stopped United Way’s mission to create lasting change by breaking the cycle of poverty through education, empowering families to become and remain self-sufficient, and connecting individuals and families to life-changing support.

United Way recently marked the first anniversary of its 211 helpline--Lake County’s new one-stop shop for help. 211 is a free, confidential, multi-lingual, 24-hour information and referral helpline that guides individuals and families to a wide range of essential health and human services. Since launching on September 24, 2019, 211 has made more than 60,000 connections to help from every zip code in the county. Throughout the pandemic, Lake County neighbors have been increasingly relying on 211 to meet growing and expanding needs.

211 is open to everyone in Lake County, and connects people to available resources by phone, by text and online, including housing and shelter, utilities, food, mental health and health care, addiction support and rehabilitation, employment, financial assistance, and more.

Jane, a single mother, became unemployed due to the pandemic which limited her income and ability to maintain household expenses. She sold her car to pay rent, but money was quickly running out. Jane was admitted to the hospital because she stopped using insulin regularly and could no longer afford it. She was lost and overwhelmed. A hospital social worker informed her about 211. Jane was able to call one number to receive financial assistance, a supportive case management program for single parents and telehealth counseling. 211 meant not having to worry about language barriers, transportation issues or contacting multiple agencies.

In addition, United Way has adapted its education programs and offerings making them available virtually so that students in Lake County who have fallen behind can regain their footing. This year:

• Success By 6 provided early childhood development programs for vulnerable children, as well as parents, to help build a foundation for strong, successful academic futures. Last year, 22,470 children benefited from these programs.
• Reading Success celebrated 10 years of building literacy skills to ensure children can read at grade level by the end of third grade. First grade students who received tutoring had reading improve rates 2x higher than their classmates who did not participate.
• Stay in School prepared 503 students for the future by providing opportunities to learn about potential careers, as well as visiting workplaces and colleges.

By supporting United Way of Lake County, companies and individuals can be part of solving local community problems and helping connect people to life-changing support.

This year, between November 24 and December 24, the Healthcare Foundation of Northern Lake County will be generously matching 100% of new or increased donations up to $7,500. That means, double the donation and impact for United Way’s 211 and education programs.

To learn more and give, visit LIVEUNITEDlakecounty.org/give.