Annie introduced Emma Lieberth Osborne and Denise Thomas of the United Way of Summit and Medina Counties.  Emma's speciality is public policy.  Denise oversees programming and investments and promotes health equity within the county.  As of July 1, the United Way of Summit County completed its merger with United Way of Medina County.

 

Emma described that United Way has four main goals/areas of attention: education, addiction, third grade reading and college academy.  Working with public health, United Way has raised over a million dollars for pandemic efforts in our local area.  She described the 211 hotline which is available for non-emergency calls 24 hours a day.  Calls have increased during the pandemic, especially from people who have been laid off and are particularly concerned about their housing and how they might access financial help from the CARES Act.   United Way oversees a Financial Empowerment Center which offers financial counseling, budgeting and help with other financial areas such as how to manage student loan debt.  Of particular interest --- The Dolly Parton Imagination Library is offered through United Way!!  All children from birth to age 5 can receive a book a month, appropriate for their age, regardless of income.  Wow --- 60 books for a children's library ... great news!!  One may call 211 to find out how to sign up.

 

Denise talked more about the 211 operation and said that they received more than 75,000 calls last year.  They have a no charge database for available sources of help in the county.  People call for help with rent and utilities, food, and tax assistance, among other concerns.  She explained that United Way partners with Door Dash to assist those most at risk for the virus.  Using a contactless method, 25 pounds of food has been delivered to each of 5,200 homes since March, including 36 Stow households.  Again, call 211 if someone is in need.  Qualifications and arrangements will be discussed.  Also, The United Way has a partnership with Summa at the Akron City Hospital campus to help those persons suffering with additions.  People who need help can go to the hospital for assistance; they will be linked with the Next Step Program to further their chances of recovery. 

 

It was good to hear about programs offered through The United Way.  Thank you Emma and Denise for your time and passion for helping others.