Lighting the Way for Kasey

Kasey is a single 35-year-old college student who works full-time. When her apartment lease came up for renewal, a steep rent increase left her unable to afford the place she called home.  

The timing could not have been worse. Kasey not only faced priced-out housing, but she also lacked the savings required for a new security deposit and moving expenses.  

Just one semester earlier, an unexpected medical crisis completely depleted her savings. To make matters more challenging, she had already been working fewer hours to keep up with intensive college coursework, leaving her without a financial safety net when she needed it most. 

That’s when Heart of Florida United Way stepped in.  

After submitting all required documentation, Kasey was approved for assistance to cover her move-in expenses and first month’s rent, allowing her to transition to her new apartment without falling behind financially.  

Today, Kasey is focused on completing her degree and building a strong foundation for her future. 

At Heart of Florida United Way, Financial Stability means more than meeting today’s needs. To us, it means building tomorrow’s possibilities. Our work empowers individuals and families to rise above short-term challenges and step confidently toward lasting economic resilience. 

This work is especially critical for ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) households — working individuals and families who are doing everything right and still struggling to make ends meet. HFUW focuses on ALICE families because they are vital to our community’s strength and future. 

In the 2024–2025 fiscal year, we helped 125,661 individuals increase their financial stability, helping alleviate immediate strain while paving the way for long-term growth. 

When unexpected challenges threaten a household’s security, HFUW is there to help them regain their footing. By connecting ALICE families to critical financial resources, coaching, and career opportunities, we help turn hard work into true economic security. Supporting ALICE means building a more resilient, inclusive community for everyone. 

Light the way for neighbors like Kasey.  
Your support helps hardworking families bridge the gap between paycheck-to-paycheck survival and sustainable independence. 
 
Donate today to help build a strong foundation for resilience and dignity across Central Florida.