United Way Notes: Happy Holidays!

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

CHRISTMAS WISHES COME TRUE

Hundreds of local families were able to make their holidays bright through Christmas Wishes.

Christmas Wishes provides gift cards to low-income families in Escambia and Santa Rosa counties so that those families can purchase gifts for Christmas.

One mother said, "I just wanted to let you all know how very much it means to us what you all provide. It was an amazing blessing, and we can't express to you how much that helps."

Funds for the program come from the Miracle on Palafox concert put on by Cat Country 98.7. This year's concert raised almost $17,000.

WE NEED A NAME!

We need your help naming the shark!

The shark is our new mascot for our Kia Giveaway. You can help us name it by submitting a suggestion by December 31, 2022. We will have the public vote on suggested names in January and reveal the winner in late January 2023.

[See photos of the shark at Gallery Night]

Click the link below to submit a name, then follow us on Facebook to keep track of the contest and see the winning name.

Submit a Name

VOLUNTEER FOR VITA

We are looking for more volunteers to help with this coming tax season.

Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) volunteers assist residents of Escambia and Santa Rosa counties making low to moderate incomes, by helping them file their taxes for free.

No previous experience is necessary, and all volunteers will all receive IRS certification and training.

Check out this video to see why volunteering might be for you.

STILL TIME TO GIVE

There is still time to make a gift to United Way of West Florida this year!

Whether you are looking to take advantage of tax benefits, make a gift in honor or memory of someone, or just want to make our community stronger, there are still a few more days to donate.

Click the button below to see how you can give and choose the right option for you. We appreciate your kindness and your willingness to help those in need.

Give Today!

HELP IS HERE

The holidays can be a stressful time for many people. Remember, help is always available.

211 Northwest Florida is an information and referral service that provides one-stop connections to community resources and services.

211 maintains up-to-date information on emergency food and shelter resources; services for families and seniors; connections to healthcare, childcare, and disability services; counseling and mental health services; and so much more.

Dial 211 to get connected

The Florida Veterans Support Line provides veterans and their loved ones the opportunity to speak with fellow veterans.

An FVSL Care Coordinator can help them through the difficulties of transitioning back to civilian life, connect them to community resources and services, and provide emotional support from trained professionals -- all fellow veterans.

Call 1-844-MYFLVET (693-5838)

988 is a suicide and crisis lifeline. This helpline provides 24-hour-a-day, confidential support to people in suicidal crisis or mental health-related distress.

Our specialists have undergone extensive training to assist callers and provide them with the support and resources they need.

If you or a loved one have thoughts of suicide, a mental health crisis, or any other emotional distress, call 988 to get help today

THANK YOU SPONSORS!

United Way of West Florida | uwwf.org