Submitted by Unity Care NW
At Unity Care NW, we are deeply committed to providing comprehensive and compassionate healthcare to all our patients, regardless of their circumstances. Over the past 3 years, we’ve had the privilege of witnessing the profound impact of our Hand-Up for Health Program, which has allowed us to extend our support beyond traditional healthcare services to address the diverse needs of our patients. Sometimes there are items or short-term services that our patients need but insurance is unable to cover, and our patients are unable to afford.
The generosity of our donors has enabled us to assist individuals and families facing challenging situations. As we reflect on 2023, we are grateful for the opportunity to share just a few of the memorable ways in which these funds were utilized to make a difference in the lives of those we serve.
Ensuring Basic Needs
Addressing basic needs is fundamental to fostering health and stability. In one case, we provided two pairs of boots to a child experiencing homelessness, ensuring they could attend school comfortably and consistently. By addressing this immediate need, we not only improved the child’s physical well-being but also facilitated their access to education — a crucial step towards breaking the cycle of poverty.
Restoring Dignity
For individuals fleeing domestic violence, regaining a sense of dignity and autonomy is paramount. Through our fund, we were able to provide a woman with a set of dentures, allowing her to reclaim her smile and confidence as she embarked on a new chapter of safety and independence.
Empowering Opportunities
One of the fundamental principles of our fund is to empower individuals to overcome barriers that impede their well-being. For instance, we were able to alleviate the burden of library fines for a patient, granting them access to essential resources for job hunting. This seemingly small gesture opened doors of opportunity and empowerment for someone striving to improve their circumstances.
Promoting Mental Health and Well-being
Mental health is an integral component of overall wellness, and our program supports initiatives aimed at promoting emotional well-being. We provided a sewing machine to a newcomer to the United States, offering them a therapeutic outlet for creativity and self-expression. This simple yet impactful gesture demonstrates our commitment to holistic care that addresses both physical and mental health needs.
Fostering Community and Connection
During times of celebration and togetherness, no one should feel left behind. Through the Hand-Up for Health Program, we were able to ensure that a family of six had the means to enjoy a Thanksgiving meal with their loved ones, fostering a sense of community and connection during a time of gratitude and reflection.
Looking Ahead
The Hand-Up for Health Program will continue to remove hurdles and build resilience for patients inhibited by economic circumstances. The successes of this program would not be possible without the generous contributions of our donors and supporters, whose commitment to our mission fuels our efforts to make a positive impact in our community. To donate to the Hand-Up for Health Program, visit Unity Care NW’s website to provide compassion, dignity, and hope to a neighbor in need.
