From my work at AdventHealth Hendersonville, I have seen firsthand some of the damage the pandemic has inflicted on our community these past two years. There have been times that our hospital was near capacity with people who were severely ill from COVID-19. Some families saw loved ones hospitalized or even die from this terrible disease.
But others have faced different kinds of challenges related to the pandemic, including job loss or layoffs, inability to pay rent or utility bills, or loss of their childcare. Some families have seen their children fall behind in school. Others are experiencing worsening mental health or increasing substance abuse. Many people in our community visited a local food pantry last year for the very first time in their lives.
That’s why United Way has never been more important. The effects of the pandemic are continuing for vulnerable people who are living on the edge. With just one gift, you can have a broad impact and brighten the lives of over 35,000 people here in Henderson County. United Way works with many local partners, and together we are improving the education, financial stability, health, and basic needs of everyone in our community. And we can’t do it without your help!
When you give to United Way, you are ensuring that people in need receive food, shelter, and legal representation. You are helping vulnerable individuals get the mental health, domestic violence or hospice services they couldn’t otherwise afford. Young children are getting a great start in kindergarten and at-risk kids are getting the help they need to succeed in school and learn healthy behaviors.
As a Henderson County native, I am proud of the way that we step up to care for one another during difficult times. As this year draws to a close, I hope you will join me in making a gift to United Way today. It may make all the difference in the lives of our friends and neighbors!
Warmly,
Sherri Holbert, UWHC Board Chair
