Are you or someone you know experiencing this? Times are tough. And they seem to keep getting tougher. Hours get cut at work, cost of living rises … one emergency hits, and crisis looms. With everything going on in the world today, all the negative news, it's easy to lose hope. But when we shift the focus to what can be done to recover and overcome these challenges, we see hope is not lost. What part does UWKV play in all this? Together, we help people RISE … I RISE logo … above youth homelessness. Did you know UWKV provides funds to schools to cover expenses for homeless and at-risk students that aren't otherwise covered by state and federal funding? Thanks to the Youth Homelessness Initiative, students have gotten glasses, their driver's license, and even a cap and gown for graduation. … to overcome food insecurity. In 2017, 23 organizations participating in the Pantry Project collected over 5,000 pounds of food for nine food pantries in our service area. … with 24/7 access to resources. 211 Maine has a database of over 8,000 resources, ranging from mental health services and heating assistance to transportation and legal services. 211 also provides emergency services during natural and other disasters. … to build financial security. As a leading member of the Central Maine CA$H Coalition, UWMM provides free tax preparation clinics for low- and moderate-income households. Over $250,000 stayed right here in Mid-Maine in 2018, thanks to money saved on tax prep fees, Earned Income Credits, and volunteer time. … with affordable prescriptions. Over 1,500 people in Mid-Maine have saved over $160,000 on prescription medications, simply by using a free FamilyWize prescription discount card. … with warmth in the deepest chill of winter. Keeping Mid-Maine Warm provided $29,000 to families in need of emergency heating assistance in Winter 2017. Together, we RISE to a stronger Mid-Maine community!