A program has been announced to help people in southern Alberta make it through difficult financial situations amid the rising cost of living.
The Boost initiative comes from the United Way of Lethbridge & South Western Alberta. The organization says before the program launched, staff continuously received calls for support from people facing financial hardships who had nowhere else to turn.
“The current cost of living has put immediate pressure on both government and nonprofit resources,” says Jaci Zalesak, director of the local United Way.
“By kick-starting the Boost program, United Way aims to provide an extra safety barrier for Lethbridge & South Western Alberta individuals and families in need.”
Zalesak adds the program will serve people accessing the provincial 211 helpline, which is available 24/7, 365 days a year to connect Albertans to any services they may need.
The Boost program will help with items like utility disconnection and evictions from rentals. The United Way notes that it will also offer long-term solutions by assisting recipients in developing strategies to avoid further crises.
Applicants to the program must first reach out to local organizations like food banks and Alberta Works to see if they have any other options for help.
Officials say this will ensure that people approved for the Boost program are those in most critical need. It will provide one-time funding to give them a lift up when they are in an emergency situation and to support poverty reduction.
DONATION
The United Way says the initiative is getting a boost of its own to launch, as ENMAX has donated $50,000 for the program.
“ENMAX believes in the power of community and funds a number of programs addressing essential needs similar to Boost, including the Basic Needs Fund run by United Way of Calgary and Area, as well as the Lights On Fund run by United Way of Central Alberta,” states Krista Moroz, manager of community impact for ENMAX.
“Ultimately, we believe in developing partnerships with local organizations dedicated to making a difference in the community.”
Further details about the Boost program are available at the United Way website.
