As the grips of this recession continue to squeeze tight, it is clear that it is up to each and every individual to utilize his or her skills and talents to help make a difference. Ask any non-profit or state agency and they will tell you that the increase in basic needs and assistance are at their highest levels ever. Unemployment levels have skyrocketed and that doesn’t even include those that are underemployed. The subsequent fallout has created a challenge for many area agencies to handle the increased need.

 

In an effort to address these emergency needs, the United Way of Greater New Haven has partnered with The Jewish Federation of Greater New Haven to hold their 2^nd Annual Neighbor-to-Neighbor Lifeline effort, to raise funds for emergency shelter, food and utility assistance in the Greater New Haven region. Last year, they raised over $642,000 that had an immediate effect on the residents it served. This year their hope is to raise $1 million! A daunting task, yes….but if we are creative and determined in the way we approach such a task, anything is possible.