Fina Badolato for the Times Herald-Record

Down, but not out.

Sadly, many of our Hudson Valley and Catskills neighbors are suffering like never before with problems exacerbated by COVID-19. Although we look forward to brighter days, especially with the promise of a COVID-19 vaccine on the horizon, these folks need help now. Folks like you and me. And you can make a world of difference in their lives – no superhero cape necessary. Here’s how.

Take the case of an Orange County couple with a 6-year-old son, a steady and self-supporting family that has resided in their home for more than 14 years.

Just before COVID hit, they had a temporary setback when the husband needed surgery, resulting in his being out of work for nearly a month. Fortunately, disability payments assisted until he could return to his job.

Happily, the husband recovered fairly quickly, and was back to work. But his wife is still dealing with the virus. Unfortunately, her job was terminated.

With the loss of the wife’s job came the loss of the family’s health benefits. Money was getting very tight for the now one-income family. COBRA coverage was unaffordable. It was getting tougher to pay the mortgage and homeowner association fees. And the car insurance. Things were looking dim.

This one-time hand-up was made possible, thanks to the generosity of people like you. The Fund was able to pay for the family’s auto insurance for a number of months, to keep the husband on the road to his job. And that was a huge help in getting the family back on a path to stability.

About the fund

The People for People Fund offers a one-time grant to steadily employed local people who have normally been self-supporting until an unexpected financial emergency arises. The fund’s assistance should significantly resolve the problem and help the individual resume financial stability. Since 1985, the fund has helped thousands of local people. To learn more about contributing, volunteering or applying for help, call 343-1663 or visit recordspeoplefund.org. Donations can also be made via the Community Foundation of Orange and Sullivan NY at: cfosny.org/ourfunds/agency-endowment/the-records-people-for-people-fund/.