United Way of the Greater Dayton Area strives to create a community where everyone has the opportunity to live their best lives. We tackle tough problems, address immediate needs, and find long- term solutions to some of the most persistent issues facing our community. We do this by investing in people through programs, services and initiatives that make a real difference. This is a story of the personal and family impact by one such program offered by Miami Valley Community Action Partnership.

MEET ALEXIS:

Alexis, a mother of one and pregnant with twins, left a verbally abusive relationship fearing it would escalate into physical abuse. She entered an emergency shelter with her child having no income, receiving only Medicaid and SNAP benefits (food assistance). With the help of a United Way of the Greater Dayton Area supported program at Miami Valley Community Action Partnership, she applied for and received cash assistance from Job and Family Services and a housing voucher from Greene Metropolitan Housing Authority Office.

Alexis decided to take charge of her life going forward while she had the support of the shelter. She responded to leads for permanent housing and was successful in finding a home. She utilized community resources like Rapid-Rehousing for deposit and utility assistance. Overcoming her fears and obstacles, allowed Alexis to move forward with a better life for herself and her three children. She was very appreciative of the housing program at Miami Valley Community Action Partnership and the opportunity to become self-sufficient.

Your gift to UWGDA supports connection and coordination with local services provided by non-profit organizations like Miami Valley Community Action Partnership. It is an investment in improving lives of people like Alexis and in building a stronger community for us all.