Family Stability Services

To say I have been dealing with a full plate would be an understatement. I am an extremely busy single mother, who works as a part-time LPN while trying to complete Valencia’s LPN-to-RN bridge program. I made the decision to return to school for myself and my daughter, to ensure a more stable future.

During this full-year program we started out as plan but began to face financial challenges due to the high demand of the nursing program. I had to reduce my full-time status at work, to dedicate more time to studying which, in turn resulted in me getting behind on some my bills. It became very stressful and many times I wanted to quit but I knew that what was at the end of this road would be a greater reward. The United Way staff listened to our story and didn’t hesitate to help my family. Their help was a blessing from above and words alone couldn’t express gratitude, because without their help I would have had to decide whether to continue achieving my goal or stopping to take care of my family.

Thank you, United Way, so much to you and your staff for all of your hard work, its much appreciated.

Chiquita W.

I came into United Way of Lake and Sumter in need of rental assistance after being released form Shands hospital with a diagnosis of a brain tumor intracerebral hemorrhage. I have a very soon scheduled surgery that will have me out of work for an unknown amount of time, I am working with Social Security Administration to get benefits, but I have no idea how long that can take. But in the meantime, if I did not get help with my rent, I would lose my home.

Nishka was able to help reassure me and offer her support as I was telling her my story. To be honest, I am scared, I am really scared to have brain surgery. I am just glad that United Way is able to assist me financially during this time and I can put my focus on my health, and being homeless after brain surgery will not be another worry for me.

Thank you, United Way, for all you do.

William G.

Marilyn was a schoolteacher for over 25 years. At the beginning of the pandemic in 2020, COVID-19 forever changed Marilyn’s life. It started with a cough, and then Marilyn could not get out of bed for two weeks; over that period, Marilyn could no longer work as a schoolteacher and became forced to retire. Marilyn contracted the COVID-19 virus, which made her health decline rapidly.

Over the past three years, Marilyn has been in and out of the hospital. A drastic change in her income forced Marilyn to seek assistance from the United Way of Lake and Sumter Counties. The United Way of Lake and Sumter Counties have assisted Marilyn with food during the holidays and maintaining her electricity from disconnection. As of the last six months, Marilyn’s health has shifted for the better, and she is fulfilling her passion by working from home and teaching children online.

Marilyn S.

Herberto and his two grandchildren moved to Florida from Pennsylvania in search of a healthier, safer life for the family unit. After relocating to Florida and looking for a job for a few weeks to complement his social security income, Heriberto started falling behind on his utility bill. As a concerned father, Heriberto resorted to calling various agencies in the Lake County area. Heriberto contacted United Way of Lake and Sumter Counties and set up an appointment with a case manager. During his first visit, Heriberto was able to receive utility assistance, which prevented him from having his power disconnected. Additionally, the case manager connected him with other agencies that provide assistance with food, clothing, and medical services. Heriberto is grateful for the assistance he received and looks forward to building a better life for him and his kids.

Herberto R.

Denise and her three children had a comfortable life living with her brother in a nice home they rented together, until her brother decided to move out to live on his own.

Denise’s income was not enough to qualify for the apartment on her own. This led to an eviction which put Denise and her kids in a hotel. Denise reached out to United of Lake and Sumter Counties with hopes that she could be assisted in finding an affordable apartment. United Way had a rapid-rehousing program at the moment for which Denise and her children qualified. Through the program, Denise was able to find housing and receive assistance with a deposit for her new apartment. In addition, Denise and her children received weekly case management in which they learned various things such as financial literacy, goal planning, and additional resources in the area. Now Denise and her kids can enjoy a safe and stable environment thanks to the assistance received and her willingness to get ahead.

Denise M.