Ericka’s Story

At 16, after the death of both of her parents, Ericka became an emancipated minor, taking on the status and responsibilities of an adult. Thanks to a United Way-funded program for homeless youth, Ericka has a safe place to live at their transitional youth housing facility, and receives essential services to support her in making this early transition to adulthood.

Kayla’s Story

Kayla, adopted at birth, was particularly affected by her parent's divorce. Kayla’s mom began to notice behavior issues — uncontrollable temper tantrums and acting out in school. A school counselor referred her to United Way’s Full Service Schools and its partner agency programs. Diagnosed with attention deficit disorder (ADD), Kayla receives counseling and takes medication to help her focus and remain in control. She recently received the “Most Improved” award at her school’s annual awards ceremony.

Elsie’s Story

When Elsie moved to Florida in 1989, her daughter enrolled her in a United Way-funded community program for seniors to help her remain active. Now 91, Elsie attends the program every weekday. There she interacts with peers and crochets six pairs of baby booties a week for a health department program for newborns.