A single mom in Pickens County is working two jobs and still choosing between the electric bill and groceries. She is doing everything right, and it still is not enough. At United Way of Pickens County, we believe every hardworking neighbor deserves the chance to move from just getting by to getting ahead. Your gift builds the programs, partnerships, and one-on-one support that help Pickens County families turn a hard season into a turning point, and a paycheck into lasting financial stability.
Our vision is a financially capable Pickens County, because when our neighbors are stable, the whole community thrives.
Financial Security Programs That Strengthen Pickens County Families
We believe that financial security starts long before the numbers in a bank account. It starts with a trusted coach, a free tax return, a phone call that leads to real help, and a community that refuses to let anyone fall through the cracks. That is why we invest in programs that meet people exactly where they are, at work, at tax time, or on the worst day of their week, and walk with them toward something better.
ALICE
ALICE stands for Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed. Understanding who ALICE is in Pickens County helps us build the right support for the hardworking neighbors whose paychecks keep our community running.
Pathways at Work
When a flat tire or a surprise medical bill threatens someone's paycheck, a United Way Success Coach meets them right at work, one-on-one and always confidential, to help solve the outside-of-work issues that quietly push good employees into crisis.
Free File
Free, trained tax preparation keeps every dollar of a hardworking family's refund where it belongs, in their own pocket, and connects them with every credit and deduction they have earned.
FINANCIAL LITERACY CLASSES
For a working adult finishing a GED or recovering from a financial setback, understanding credit, debt, and budgeting can change everything. Hands-on classes at the Adult Education Learning Center in Easley meet Pickens County students right where they are.
Help When You Need It Right Now
Sometimes financial security means a five-year plan. Sometimes it means getting through the next five days. When a Pickens County neighbor picks up the phone or searches for help online, we want the answer to be close, free, and trustworthy.
211
One easy number, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, connecting Pickens County neighbors with food, housing, utility help, and the resources they need in that moment.
Tough Times Toolkit
A free, downloadable guide to local food pantries, housing assistance, utility help, medical clinics, legal services, and more, available in English and Spanish.
SINGLECARE PRESCRIPTION DISCOUNT
A free discount card that helps anyone in Pickens County, insured or not, afford the medications they need. No one should have to choose between a prescription and the electric bill.
Have a question?
For more information about the Financial Security programs offered through United Way of Pickens County, contact Matt Smith.