York County Community Action Corporation today announced that is has been awarded five grants totaling $63,600 from United Way of York County. The investments will go to YCCAC’s Transportation program, receiving $15,000 as the second half of a two year grant; YCCAC’s Hope Fund, which was awarded $8,100; the Children’s Services Program (Head Start and Early Head Start), receiving $16,200; A Place for Us, which combines affordable, transitional housing opportunities with ongoing case management, budget management and counseling, awarded $16,200; and YCCAC’s Growing Access to Health Eating Resources—or, GATHER—Program, York County’s only currently running Fruit & Vegetable Prescription program, which received $8,100.

YCCAC’s Transportation program provides critical transportation to medical and other health-related appointments to low-income York County residents who have no other transportation option available. In 2019, York County Transport expects to provide upwards of 1,200 trips. The grant to YCCAC’s Hope Fund will be used in concert with case management to meet the needs of low-income York County households—either to address an immediate crisis and/or to position that household for greater long-term financial stability (e.g. a needed car repair so an individual can get to work and retain employment). The Head Start and Early Head Start programs, with 9 sites and a combined total of 17 classrooms, will use their funds to provide mental health services, in-classroom support, and enhanced training for teachers. In 2019, the GATHER Program will provide monthly vouchers to purchase fresh produce, as well as clinical check-ins and nutrition education, to approximately 125 individuals (anticipated 50 households) who identify as food-insecure, or who need nutritional support to manage a chronic diet-related condition.

Through the mobilization of people, resources and expertise, United Way of York County works to improve lives across York County.  Thanks to the continued support of dedicated individuals, businesses, and organizations across the region, this year the United Way is investing in 58 community programs that serve children, youth, adults, and families.

“Thanks to the generosity of those who support United Way’s work throughout the year, we are able to provide continued and much needed support for essential and direct human services right here in our county,” noted United Way of York County President & CEO Barb Wentworth. “These important programs support the best start for our youngest citizens, provide healthy foods for children and seniors, engage youth in meaningful service, and meet basic needs—all critical components of our collective efforts to build an even stronger York County.”