When people are unemployed or cannot meet basic needs, the impact is felt throughout the community. The lack of financial stability is linked to negative societal issues. United Way’s efforts in the areas around supportive housing programs and promoting personal financial management are designed to help others gain long-term stability.
United Way of Berks County is committed to efforts that help individuals and families access stable housing, gain job skills and build financial literacy so they have increased opportunities to achieve long-term financial stability. This is accomplished through funding programs with with our agency partners in addition to providing special grants for other organizations helping people to attain financial independence in different ways. Agency Partners and their supported programs in the area of Financial Stability are listed below.
United Way Agency Partners and Supported Programs
| Agency Partner | Supported Programs |
|---|---|
| Connections Work | Community-based outreach program focused on reducing recidivism and promoting successful reentry of prisoners into the community. |
| Habitat for Humanity of Berks County, Inc. | Assists working families with moderate income achieve home ownership. HFHBC renovates existing homes. Home buyers complete sweat equity hours at homes and participate in financial literacy and counseling. |
| Literacy Council of Reading-Berks | Adult basic literacy and English as a Second Language education programs. |
| The Salvation Army: Reading Corps | Supportive Housing Program helps homeless and disabled individuals find permanent solutions to their homelessness. |
| Threshold Rehabilitation Services, Inc. | Employment training, placement and follow-up services through Berks Personnel Network for people with physical challenges. |
| YMCA of Reading & Berks County | Transitional housing programs for homeless men, women and children. |