SHIM receives United Way Grant
South Hills Interfaith Ministries received close to $99,000 from United Way of Allegheny County to continue its Smart Investments program for the next three years.
“Smart Investments turns moments of crisis into windows of opportunity for women who need help,” said Jim Guffey, executive director of SHIM. Smart Investments offers a one-time emergency grant, generally between $500 to $700, to help women maintain safe housing, have transportation to work, and pay utility bills. In addition, Smart Investments directs women to other supports that can supplement household income, like utility assistance, job training and support, and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. SHIM also connects women to resources where they can build financial planning skills to avoid future crises.
Once an emergency situation is resolved, Smart Investments’ case workers work with women to use community resources and develop money management skills to stabilize their families.
“When a woman no longer fears losing her family’s home, going without food or utilities, or losing her job due to lack of transportation, she develops the time and emotional strength to take better care of herself and her family,” said Guffey.
In addition to providing grants, Smart Investments hosts financial seminars open to all women that are facilitated by volunteers and bank partners who teach money management skills. “Our goal is to provide access to emergency funds, referrals to community resources, financial literacy training and long-term financial skill building for women in need,” said Guffey.
Additionally, Smart Investments seeks members of the community to serve as volunteer financial coaches and peer allies for program participants. SHIM also is a partner in the WorkAble program alongside lead agency Jewish Family & Children’s Services.
Those who are interested in accessing either Smart Investments or WorkAble should call PA 2-1-1 Southwest, the 24/7 human services helpline powered by United Way.