United Way has responded to the needs of Long Islanders who have been greatly affected by the economic and health pandemic. Recognizing the impact the nonprofit has been making in the region, National Grid Foundation recently made a generous contribution of $250,000 in support of Project Warmth and Safe at Home for Seniors. Both United Way programs are critical to helping neighbors who are experiencing financial difficulties and/or isolation due to job losses, mandates, and limited resources.
According to the 2020 ALICE Report*, more than 30% of local residents are struggling to make ends meet despite working one, two or even three jobs. Ed White, Executive Director of National Grid Foundation noted, “This year has been especially difficult, as we are witnessing families asking for help for the first time. It’s comforting to know Project Warmth is available to Long Islanders, helping to provide the stability needed to overcome temporary economic challenges.”
As Long Island’s only island-wide non-governmental emergency heating fund, United Way’s Project Warmth is open and available as a safety net for individuals and families who are facing energy insecurity. This fuel-neutral program is especially critical for those who do not qualify for government programs, including seniors, veterans, families with young children and people with disabilities.Assistance with an oil delivery, heat-related utility bill or other heating source, means people have room in their budgets to cover essentials like food or medication.
Theresa A. Regnante, President and CEO of United Way of Long Island claimed, “We could not be more honored to be partnering with such a stellar philanthropic organization.” She stated, “National Grid Foundation’s commitment to United Way’s mission is evident through their longstanding support for Project Warmth. Now it is even more apparent through their action in support of addressing serious challenges facing our region’s most vulnerable population…seniors.”
“The senior population is experiencing unparalleled hardship, which is one of the reasons why National Grid Foundation increased our contribution this year to include support towards United Way’s Safe at Home for Seniors,” said White. He added, “This will allow aging residents access to critical resources and essential services in a safe manner from the comfort of their own homes.”
United Way’s Safe at Home for Seniors is a health and safety program that alleviates the stress of older adults who are unable to access resources. United Way is working in partnership with its network of agencies to connect seniors who are isolated from family or a caregiver with Bilingual Community Navigators. They act as helping hands managing everyday tasks such as grocery shopping and picking up prescriptions; making sure their homes have proper safety measures such as grab rails and working smoke detectors; and providing communication assistance – from connecting seniors with family members to scheduling their healthcare appointments, including registering for the COVID-19 vaccine.
For assistance regarding Project Warmth or Safe at home for Seniors, contact United Way’s 211 helpline 24 hours a day, 7 days a week by dialing 2-1-1, or outside of Nassau and Suffolk Counties 1-888-774-7633, or visit 211longisland.org,unitedwayli.org/projectwarmth or unitedwayli.org/safeathome.
*With 302,520 households on Long Island who struggle to make ends meet, known as ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed), these individuals work hard to support their families yet often find themselves behind on bills.
Photo Caption: Ed White, National Grid Foundation’s Executive Director joins remotely with Patricia Rivers, United Way of Long Island’s Community Impact Director and Natalie a Project Warmth recipient for a radio interview and check presentation.
About United Way of Long Island
United Way of Long Island advances the common good, creating opportunities for a better life for all by focusing on three key building blocks; health, education and financial stability. It is our priority to create equity across Long Island by investing in partnerships, helping the most vulnerable and at risk through organizations and programs that demonstrate raising the bar for fairness and equal access to services. For more information about United Way of Long Island, please visit UnitedWayLI.org, or follow on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
About National Grid Foundation
National Grid Foundation was created to enhance the quality of life across its grant making territory. The Foundation’s ongoing challenge is to create opportunities for solutions to educational and environmental issues. Its objective is based on the principle that giving people the tools to build hope is an essential ingredient in the development of individuals, families, and communities. Since its inception in December of 1998, the Foundation now in its 23rd year has granted more than $30 million to local community organizations.
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