LEWISTOWN - The United Way of Mifflin-Juniata has reached $272,050 of its goal of $600,000 during the campaign that began on Sept. 19 and runs until March 15, 2013.
The MidPenn Legal Services is one of the agencies that benefits from working with the United Way. Regional Manager Brent Frank explains how partnering with the United Way has served the MidPenn Legal Services:
"MidPenn Legal Services is the 'emergency room of the legal profession,' for very low-income families in Central Pennsylvania. Funding from the United Way of Mifflin-Juniata enables MidPenn Legal Services to advocate on behalf of our communities' most vulnerable populations: children, the poor, elderly, the disabled and survivors of domestic violence.
"Local support means MidPenn can dedicate resources to address issues that are important in Mifflin and Juniata counties. More specifically, the United Way funds MidPenn Legal Services' Telephone Advice Project: Help is on the Line.
"This project provides a 'legal safety net' for low-income individuals and families who would otherwise not be able to access legal help. Callers speak directly to a MidPenn attorney who provides legal advice about their situation and information about their options. This can help the caller make decisions that avoid future legal problems or provides direction on how to resolve current legal problem. Callers who require more than legal advice may be referred to another MidPenn Legal Services attorney for further legal assistance."
In addition to funding, the United Way also provides opportunities for organizations like MidPenn Legal Services to gain recognition in the community as well as assisting in the development of collaborative relationships with other United Way funded organizations. United Way claims these collaborations are important in maintaining their holistic approach to serving common client populations, avoiding duplication of services and working for the good of the community.
