Grass Valley, CA — Two different local seniors, Laurel and Lynda, recently lost their hot water after their water heaters failed. Neither had the money nor access to loans to get them fixed, and with winter coming, hot water is even more essential. The Nevada County Emergency Fund provided quick help, restoring comfort and normalcy to their homes.

After losing his teenage daughter in a tragic accident, Robert was struggling. His grief was overwhelming, and he was not able to work leading to difficulty with expenses. The Fund provided both utility assistance and a gas card, easing his burden during an unimaginable time of loss. Robert shared “The Nevada County Emergency Fund considerably reduced my stress concern over my financial situation. I was unable to work and had a lot of expenses due to my 15-year-old daughter passing from a car accident with other juveniles”

After her doctor advised her to move to a downstairs apartment for health reasons, Tracy couldn’t afford the new deposit. Her difficulties getting up the stairs to her own place were becoming impossible and increasingly painful. The Emergency Fund stepped in to provide her safe and accessible housing that supports her health and independence.

Only six weeks in existence, these are some of the successes of the United Way of Nevada County’s new Emergency Fund. Since its launch, the Emergency Fund has helped neighbors overcome sudden challenges—restoring stability, dignity, and peace of mind when life takes an unexpected turn. At this time, more than 40 applications for assistance have been received with a dozen of our local residents already approved and given financial support.

The Emergency Fund was created to fill critical gaps for individuals and families who have exhausted other resources but still face an unexpected, one-time, urgent, essential need. The Fund provides targeted relief that keeps people safe, healthy, and secure in their homes.

As winter approaches, the need for emergency support will continue to rise. The Nevada County Emergency Fund started with $20,000 and the hope that the community would pitch in to double those funds by the end of the year. UWNC is looking for just under $13,000 to reach that goal and keep the Emergency Fund strong and responsive.

How to help:

  • Donate: Visit uwnc.org/emergency-fund to make a one-time or recurring gift and direct your donation to the Nevada County Emergency Fund
  • Spread the word: Share these stories and help more neighbors learn that support is available when life takes an unexpected turn.

“Sometimes, one unexpected expense can be the difference between stability and crisis,” said Louise Reed, Executive Director of UWNC. “The Emergency Fund is a community-powered safety net—and we’re asking our community to help keep it strong.”

For many these days, just one overwhelming bill or event can be the difference between keeping a roof over one’s head and homelessness.

About United Way of Nevada County

United Way of Nevada County is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization committed to improving lives by directing community resources toward essential needs. Its programs address food access, emergency relief, and disaster preparedness for individuals and families across Nevada and Sierra Counties.