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Clara is not a real person but her story is based on the real challenges that individuals and families experiencing poverty face in the Triangle every day. These are decisions that anyone might have to make in their lifetime but become even more difficult when you’re already strapped for time and money. 

In April 2022, WRAL reported that 61% of Americans are living paycheck to paycheck. People in those situations can’t save enough to miss one payment or put aside money for emergencies. As a single, elderly individual living on social security in a home that has been paid off, Clara is an example of that challenge in action. While she’s technically financially stable, it’s only for her current circumstances. The unexpected addition of additional mouths to feed plus a higher tax bill is enough to throw her into financial stability and at risk of going hungry or becoming homeless. 

In the Greater Triangle, nearly 200,000 people are experiencing the hardships of poverty every day. 

With your support, United Way of the Greater Triangle invests in 91 nonprofit organizations that are providing the food, housing, education, workforce, and health support that our most vulnerable neighbors need to overcome poverty and increase their social mobility. 

Nonprofits that receive funds from United Way form a safety net for families like Clara’s by providing services as wide ranging as assistance with rent, treatment for mental health issues, groceries for families, and books for young children. 

Nonprofits that receive funds from United Way also focus on creating the systemic solutions needed so that Clara’s grandchildren have the chance at a future full of resources and opportunity. 

None of this is possible without supporters like you. Your generous donations have a real impact on the lives of local families. Thank you. To learn more about the impact you helped make possible last year, click here. 

If you or someone you know is in need of help, you can call “2-1-1.” United Way’s NC 2-1-1 system is available 24/7/365 to connect the community to the resources they need. For more information on NC 2-1-1, click here.