As we get older, asking for help is not always easy.
An elderly man reached out to Catholic Charities West Virginia after falling behind on his electric bill. Living on a fixed income, he had done everything he could to stay on top of his expenses, but a few unexpected costs left him with impossible choices. He was facing the very real possibility of losing electricity in his home.
Without power, he would have lost more than lights. He would have lost refrigeration for his food and medications, relief from the summer heat, and the comfort of feeling safe in his own home.
Because of support from United Way of Monongalia and Preston Counties, Catholic Charities West Virginia was able to provide emergency utility assistance before his service was disconnected. The payment gave him the time and stability he needed to get back on his feet.
For him, the assistance meant more than an electric bill being paid. It was the reassurance that someone cared enough to help when he had nowhere else to turn. In a moment filled with worry and uncertainty, his community reminded him that he was not forgotten.
Sometimes the most meaningful gift we can give is the chance for someone to stay safely at home with dignity, hope, and the knowledge that they do not have to face life’s challenges alone.
