On Wednesday, June 5th, Commissioner Director Jeff Kuhl, presented a check in the amount of $100,000 to the CEO of United Way of Hunterdon County, Brenda Esler, along with members of her staff.
This money was awarded to United Way as part of the grant program from State and Local Recovery Funds, received by Hunterdon County under the American Rescue Plan. Commissioner Director Kuhl shared, “As a Board we appreciate all the good things that United Way does for our residents and the community. We value your hard work and commitment to improving lives and creating positive change through financial security for people and their families.
We are proud to present these grant funds to you and hope that it will make a significant impact for many and provide support to those that need it most.” At a March board meeting, County Commissioners announced the award of $1 million in grant funds as recommended by HFA Certified Public Accountants & Advisors for local non-profits who were on the front lines of responding to the COVID-19 Public Emergency Health Crisis and for those that experienced negative economic impacts as a result of the pandemic crisis.
The United Way of Hunterdon County was among several local non-profit entities that were awarded funds. United Way has been supporting members of the community for more than 30 years with programs built to support the need of ALICE, an acronym that is focused on helping neighbors that are Asset Limited, Income Constrained, and Employed (or retired). Approximately 22% of the Hunterdon County population is ALICE, and an additional 4% are below the federal poverty level line.
These are residents who work in jobs that are essential to the county’s economy, yet struggle every day to make ends meet. The United Way of Hunterdon County’s vision is to create a community center of volunteerism, leadership, and philanthropy, where all individuals and families achieve their full potential through income stability, healthy lives, and education.
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