An Economic Response

Are you feeling the pinch during these tough economic times? The current economic situation is hitting everyone in their pocketbook, but there are services available to help you, right here in our own community.

This forum included panelists from organizations that can provide help to those experiencing need for the first-time. You'll hear personal testimonials from people who have been helped, and find out exactly what types of services are available.

Watch the Forum

An Economic Response - Part 1
Part 1 includes an interview with Mayor Jonathan Weinzapfel on the "Bank on Evansville" initiative, as well as two of the four panel groups: Life Necessities and Unemployment.

An Economic Response - Part 2
Part 2 includes the final two panel groups: Finances and Health Care, as well as an end group discussion addressing viewer questions.

Participating Organizations

United Way of Southwestern Indiana operates a 2-1-1 Call Center. 2-1-1 is an easy-to-remember telephone number that impacts communities by connecting people with important services and volunteer opportunities. 2-1-1 makes it possible for people in need to navigate the complex and ever-changing maze of human services.

211's mission is to link individuals in need of social services with the appropriate service providers in the community.

VITA sites (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance sites)
New in 2009! A Third VITA Site > United Way is proud to announce that Salvation Army will join C.K. Newsome Center and WorkOne of Evansville as this year's free Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Sites! In 2008, over 400 clients received free tax preparation, bringing a total of over $400,000 back into our community. An estimated $4 million goes unclaimed in Vanderburgh, Warrick and Spencer Counties. Visit here for more information.

Statistics from An Economic Response

According to United Way of Southwestern Indiana's 211 - Top Five Needs in Community

• Food (6% increase)
• Financial assistance (4% increase)
• Information
• Holiday
• Housing (17% increase)

Agencies and Programs in the 211 Database

• Agencies - 518
• Programs - 945

Number of Referrals Made by 211 - 27,809

Foreclosures

• Indiana posted the 11th-highest foreclosure rate (one in 60)
  *Source: Ky. foreclosures below U.S. avg., Evansville Courier and Press, 1-17-09

Self-sufficiency levels

• Self-sufficiency wage for a two-parent Vanderburgh County family with an infant and a preschooler was $35,311 a year ($16.96 per hour).
• A single parent with a preschooler would need to earn $22,467, or $10.64 an hour to be self-sufficient. (this might be outdated since it was in the 10 Year Plan, which was released a few year ago)
  *Source: Aurora, Destination Home 10-Year Plan

Agencies that provide Bill Assistance, Credit Counseling

Bill Assistance

• Catholic Charities
• CAPE
• Mission of Grace
• Outreach Ministries
• St. Vincent DePaul Society
• Salvation Army
• Vanderburgh County Township Trustees
  • Armstrong
  • Center
  • German
  • Knight
  • Perry
  • Pigeon
  • Scott
  • Union
  • 
    

Credit Counseling

• Catholic Charities
• Momentive Consumer Credit Counseling
• Social Security Administration