Florida Keys Outreach Coalition & United Way of Florida Keys Continue to Strengthen Partnership to Serve More in Need

The Florida Keys Outreach Coalition, Inc. (FKOC) and the United Way of the Florida Keys have begun another year of partnership to serve Monroe County’s neediest residents. The long partnership between both agencies has allowed FKOC to expand services throughout the Florida Keys and reach a greater number of the working poor who are struggling to meet their daily basic needs.

The United Way announced support of FKOC’s new Quick Assist Program which stretches throughout the entire Florida Keys providing one-time emergency assistance. Quick Assist is designed to help prevent homelessness by offering a brief period of assistance to income limited community members.   Only a few months into the program FKOC has been able to help with child care for working moms, pay utility bills for longtime residents dealing with health crises, provide assistance to those regaining employment, in addition to many other services.

“Quick Assist was created as a response to the many requests FKOC and the United Way of the Florida Keys were receiving from income limited people who just needed a little help to get to their next paycheck. For the most part they are dealing with unexpected life situations and just need someone to help keep them on track,” said FKOC’s Chief Operating Officer, Stephanie Kaple. Kaple continued, “It’s remarkable how helping with one bill can really give an individual or family a second chance at staying housed. A little help can make the biggest difference when done quickly.” Those interested in Quick Assist may call 305-295-7741 in the Lower Keys or reach FKOC’s Upper Keys office at 305-916-5454 to learn more about available services.

The United Way additionally continued its support of FKOC’s Loaves & Fish Food Pantry which serves the food insecure in Key West with two neighborhood locations to better reach those with limited transportation who cannot travel to New Town and beyond for meal assistance.   Those in need of food assistance may access the Loaves & Fish Food Pantry at 2221 Patterson Avenue, Key West Monday thru Friday from 9am to 5pm and at 810 Center Street Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays 10am-2pm.

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