How To Access Community Resources in Berks County When You Need Them Most

The single mom caught in a SNAP delay with an empty pantry. 

The grandfather deciding between a warm home and dinner on the table during the cold season.

The veteran struggling to find a civilian paycheck after years of service. 

Every person in Berks County has faced a crisis in their life at one time or another. Here at the United Way of Berks County, we bring people together so no one faces life’s challenges alone.

This blog will walk you through the practical steps to prioritize when facing financial hardship and how to connect with critical resources. 

Assess Your Situation

Before you prioritize your spending, you need a clear snapshot of your current financial reality. It’s like a financial first-aid kit: you have to bandage the wound before you can build a long-term plan.

Ready? Even in life’s most stressful moments, taking the first step is the most important.

Grab a pen or your notes app and start by asking yourself three emergency questions:

• 14-Day Window: What essential bills are due in the next two weeks? Priorities like rent, electricity, and car insurance are essentials.
• Assets: What income or savings can you access? Do you have a trusted friend, family member, or community leader who can help?
• Resources: Are there benefits or resources you can apply for right now to receive help?

Prioritize: What to Pay First

Every family has priorities, but there are three main essentials: food, shelter, and work.

1. Food and Health

Access to healthy food is the top priority for you and your loved ones.

• Action Step: Don’t wait until the fridge is empty. Reach out to the Helping Harvest Fresh Food Bank at 610-926-5802 or Dial 211 for a list of local food pantries and meal sites.
• SNAP Benefits: If your benefits stopped, log into your PA COMPASS account immediately to see if you missed a signature or renewal form.

2. Safety

Maintain your shelter and the electricity.

• Action Step: Contact your landlord or mortgage lender before the due date. Many are willing to make an arrangement for a payment plan if you reach out first.
• Utility Lifelines: Get in touch with your electricity provider and ask about “hardship programs.” If it’s the winter season, you can also apply to government energy assistance through LIHEAP within the eligibility window.

3. Work

Stable work is critical to getting back on your feet.

To keep your current job or find a new one there are three main options:

Option 1: Finding Your Next Job

If you’ve lost your job or need a better-paying option, PA CareerLink® Berks County is your local headquarters for employment.

• Action Step: Visit the local office in Reading for resume, interview, and networking assistance across Berks County.

Option 2: Protecting Your Childcare

Many families rely on the help of the state to pay for childcare and any interruption in that service can cause significant financial hardship.

• Action Step: If your bill suddenly increases, talk to your provider. Ask if they offer “Bridge Support” (a temporary discount) to keep your children enrolled while you review your benefits with PA COMPASS.

Option 3: Staying Online

It’s difficult to apply for jobs, attend interviews, or even check on your SNAP status without a reliable internet connection.

• Action Step: If you are struggling to pay your bill, ask your provider about their hardship programs. You may qualify for the government Lifeline Program which offers a monthly discount on phone or internet service.

Whatever path you choose to receive help, never walk alone. Always reach out to the resources in our community and let trusted friends, family, and local leaders know that you’re in crisis.

Download our free Get Help guide to access these local resources at a glance when you need them most.