COLUMBUS, Ind. — A local bank’s foundation is helping United Way of Bartholomew meet its goal of lifting families out of poverty.
First Financial Foundation has awarded United Way of Bartholomew County a $100,000 grant to be paid over three years for the Avenues to Opportunity program.
Avenues to Opportunity is a United Way program that holistically lifts people to their full potential by addressing their individual barriers by providing basic needs, offering job and budget coaching, and giving individuals the tools they need to rise 200% above the Federal Poverty Line. This program is a main part of United Way’s strategy to lift 1,000 families out of poverty in 2,000 days.
“First Financial’s mission is to be a positive influence to help our clients and communities thrive,” said Archie Brown, president, and chief executive officer of First Financial Bank. “Our support of UWBC ensures that children, families and adults in Bartholomew County will have access to the tools and resources needed to help them overcome economic, social and emotional challenges.”
Last year, 263 families participated in Avenues to Opportunity, with all of them gaining job skills and receiving financial coaching. Families who are enrolled in Avenues typically receive about 120 hours of personalized coaching that help them overcome their individual barriers.
For the complete story, see Thursday’s Republic.
