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February 9, 2018

4 Ways You Can Lift People Out of Poverty

Childhood malnutrition. Illiteracy. Low-wage career paths. These are just a few of the outcomes families face due to chronic unemployment or underemployment. Choosing between putting food on the table, purchasing medication or buying school supplies is a daily financial dilemma for many parents, one that is avoidable with the right support system in place.
 
In 2013, a Harvard University/UC Berkeley study uncovered that a child born in poverty in the Southeast has very little chance of climbing out of it during their lifetime. In fact, Charlotte-Mecklenburg ranked 50th out of 50 among the largest U.S. cities in economic mobility. But our challenge is not unique. Other communities across the South are dealing with the same issue.
 
You can help individuals struggling to make ends meet. Through United Way, you can volunteer your time and services to programs that support people in your own backyard. Examples include:
 

  1. Assist Those in Need: Hands On Charlotte, a program of United Way of Central Carolinas, can connect you with community centers in need of volunteers and other local services that rely on the caring power of community members to help people who are struggling.

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  2. Attend an Awareness Event: Connect with individuals passionate about creating the change our community needs through United Way’s engagement groups. LINC, an engagement group driven by social volunteerism, focuses specifically on poverty. View upcoming events.

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  3. Spread the Word: Know of any neighbors in need? Introduce them to the financial tools and programs offered through United Way. Financial support services are just a phone call away through 2-1-1, our 24/7 helpline. United Way is also partnered with HR Block to provide free tax help through myfreetaxes.com.

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  4. Donate to United Way: You can make a difference for individuals by supporting United Way’s work in the community. Your investment helps our neighbors to overcome financial hardship and reduce homelessness — or prevent it altogether. Donate today!

 
By donating your time or services, you can help remove barriers to housing, education and employment. It starts with you.