United Way of the Mohawk Valley recently gave away $2,000 in grocery gift cards with funding from the Emergency Food and Shelter Program (EFSP). Families who received a gift card were Oneida County residents who had previously been helped secure permanent housing with the help of United Way MV.

United Way MV’s goal with the grocery giveaway was to help people achieve a greater quality of life. Connecting families with necessary resources, such as food, minimize an already burdensome time for families that are in need this holiday season, officials said.

United Way MV’s grocery gift card giveaway partnered with Compassion Coalition’s self-sustaining grocery store, Bargain Grocery. At Bargain Grocery, shoppers can purchase fresh groceries at discounted rates, resulting in shoppers getting 35% more groceries with their gift cards from United Way MV. This partnership allowed United Way MV’s giveaway to go a little further for the recipient community members.

“Through the EFSP funding, we were able to provide individuals and families who have recently experienced homelessness an additional boost toward their financial stability,” said Betty-Joan Beaudry, United Way MV’s community impact director. “This giveaway helped alleviate one financial burden as they adjust to their new homes and at a time when they are also having to buy weather-appropriate clothing and manage other rising costs.”

Last month, 50 United Way MV Welcome Home Kits were given to previously unhoused individuals and families as well. The kits included many household necessities, such as cookware, towels, and bedding. All United Way MV grocery gift cards and Welcome Home Kits have been distributed, however, United Way officials say individuals and families in need of help, such as housing and food, should utilize United Way’s 211 services to be connected to available help. You can reach this service by dialing 2-1-1, visiting 211midyork.org, or by texting your zip code to 898-211.