Caldwell County DSS board approves United Way agency agreement to expand crisis aid

The Caldwell County Department of Social Services board voted Tuesday to approve an agency agreement with United Way that staff said will let the department expand short‑term assistance beyond federally income‑restricted energy programs.

Mary Patterson, introduced as an economic services supervisor, told the board United Way funding is not income based and can be used year‑round to help families with heating and cooling needs, electric and gas bills, medications, a small portion of rent and water bills. "When we're out of monies we have United Way to fall back on and that has been a lifesaver so many times," Patterson said.

Patterson said the county’s federally funded energy programs operate on a seasonal basis and that United Way funds fill gaps when crisis intervention funds run out. The board asked questions, then moved and seconded a motion to approve the United Way of Caldwell County agency agreement; the motion carried on a voice vote.

The agreement will permit Department of Social Services staff to apply for United Way funds during the coming year and to use those funds for emergency needs the department identifies. The board did not discuss a dollar amount in the meeting. The vote was recorded as in favor with no recorded opposition.

Board members thanked Patterson and noted the agreement complements the department’s existing programs and local partnerships. The board did not set additional conditions in open session.