Having a safe, stable place to call home is essential. When an unexpected expense, health change or other challenge puts that stability at risk, figuring out where to turn can be difficult.
Through programs and services across the organization, United Way of Central Alabama (UWCA) helps individuals and families facing housing instability understand their options and connects them with resources that can help them move forward.
United Way Programs Work Together
When a local veteran and his wife were experiencing homelessness, a friend drove them to UWCA to meet with Priority Veteran staff. While the couple was inside discussing available services, their friend’s car broke down in the parking lot.
As Priority Veteran staff helped the couple explore housing options, three other UWCA employees stepped in to assist with the car. Staff members were able to get the vehicle started, but the couple still needed reliable transportation to their temporary housing.
Priority Veteran reached out to UWCA’s Ride United program, which arranged transportation to a hotel. By the end of the day, the veteran and his wife had a safe place to stay.
Their experience shows how United Way programs and staff can work together to meet needs as they arise. People seeking help may not know which program to contact or what resources are available, but by starting with United Way, they can be connected with support that fits their circumstances.
Priority Veteran Supports Veterans and Their Families
For veterans and their families experiencing homelessness or at immediate risk of losing their housing, Priority Veteran provides individualized support designed to help them regain stability.
Because each household faces different circumstances, that support may include:
- Housing searches and placement.
- Transportation.
- Supportive services.
- Connections to state and local benefits, including SNAP, TANF and WIC.
Priority Veteran serves eligible veterans and their families throughout Alabama, excluding Baldwin and Mobile counties, as well as veterans in portions of the Florida Panhandle.
Call 211 for Help
Housing instability does not always begin with the loss of a home. An overdue utility bill, difficulty paying rent or an unexpected home repair can quickly place additional strain on a household. Addressing those needs early may help a family remain safely housed.
211 Connects Alabama is a free, confidential resource that connects people with local services based on their individual needs.
Depending on what a caller is experiencing, housing-related resources may include:
- Emergency shelter.
- Affordable and subsidized housing.
- Rental and mortgage assistance.
- Utility assistance.
- Home repair resources.
Callers do not need to know which program to ask for. A 211 specialist can listen to what is happening, identify potential needs and connect callers with resources that may be able to help.
To get connected, dial 211.
Aging and Disability Resource Center
For older adults and family caregivers, housing stability can also mean having the support needed to remain safely and independently at home.
UWCA’s Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC) serves as a starting point for older adults, people with disabilities and caregivers looking for services and support.
Based on an individual’s needs, the ADRC can provide connections to resources such as:
- In-home care.
- Transportation.
- Legal services.
- Dental care.
- Vision and hearing services.
To speak with someone, call 1-800-AGE-LINE.
A Place to Start
Housing challenges can look different for every person. One household may need help paying a utility bill, while another may be searching for affordable housing, trying to remain safely at home or facing homelessness.
No matter the circumstances, knowing exactly which program to contact should not have to be the first step. United Way of Central Alabama brings together programs, partners and people to connect individuals and families with support when they need it most.
To learn more about United Way’s impact on the community, click here.
This blog originally appeared in Bham Now’s “Facing housing instability? How to get help for seniors, veterans + more.”