2-1-1 Helps Orlando Family Keep Electricity On
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Hardworking, well-meaning people in Central Florida are hurting - many of them families with children. This year the need is the most critical we've seen in decades.
Will you help?
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When Fred Barr called United Way 2-1-1, he had nowhere left to turn. A former ad agency creative director who lost his job during the recession, Fred had struggled for months to make ends meet while futilely searching for another job.
As the sole provider for his wife and teenage son, who has multiple sclerosis, Fred felt enormous pressure to hold things together. But when his savings, unemployment and medical benefits ran out, things went from bad to worse when Fred learned he had cancer.
Unable to pay bills, Fred called United Way 2-1-1 when the electricity was about to be shut off. Fortunately, he was quickly qualified to receive several months of utility assistance, which helped him stabilize the immediate crisis and focus on his health and other priorities.
With his cancer now in remission, Fred continues to look for a full-time job and recently started a marketing business. And though he acknowledges his struggles are far from over, he's grateful for the help he received through United Way.
"There are certain things you need to survive - rent, utilities, food, insurance," Fred said. "It's a like a chain. And when the chain breaks, you're really unprotected. United Way helped me keep the chain solid."
When you support United Way, you support our work to help thousands of Central Floridians like Fred and his family who are struggling to survive these difficult times. This holiday season, please consider making a difference with a generous year-end, tax-deductible gift.
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