UTICA — United Way of the Mohawk Valley (United Way MV) partnered with Berkshire Bank to fill a unique gap for individuals and families who were previously unhoused or living in shelters as they secure a home.

Individuals moving into their own apartments after being homeless or living in a shelter usually do not have the basic supplies needed for a home. Obtaining necessities, such as cookware, towels and bedding can be challenging. However, United Way MV stepped in to create a “Welcome Home Kit” to ensure that folks will have necessities from the start. The non-profit’s unique position in the community allows them to identify unmet needs and create solutions to fill gaps in services such as this one, officials said.

This is the second time the kits have been assembled and distributed through community partners. They were distributed through United Way MV’s Coordinated Entry System. The Coordinated Entry System links local homelessness system providers to a real-time list of individuals experiencing homelessness in our community. The system then connects individuals to available housing options that best match their needs.

Funding from United Way MV and Berkshire Bank helped purchase “Welcome Home Kits” items for those transitioning into a new home as they move forward to a brighter future. Berkshire Bank employees spent an afternoon volunteering to help pack 50 large storage totes with those household items including a blow-up mattress, sheet set, can opener, pan, dishes, utensils, oven mitt, sponges, broom and dustpan, towels, shower curtain, towel set and a reusable grocery bag.

“These kits provide the bare minimum of what people should have when moving into a new home,” said Matt Nicholl, vice president of business banking at Berkshire Bank. “We continue to work with United Way of the Mohawk Valley to assist our local community. Imagine being on the receiving end of this project and being able to sustain, rather than feel the stress of everything a new home can bring. As a socially responsible community bank, supporting United Way MV’s Welcome Home Kits is an important step to help individuals thrive during challenging times.”

Housing stability is the foundation of health and well-being – and United Way MV believes everyone should have access to a safe and stable home. United Way MV is one of many organizations that partner through Mohawk Valley Housing and Homeless Coalition to provide resources dedicated to helping the unhoused and those experiencing housing insecurity. Along with United Way MV’s Welcome Home Kits, their focus is ensuring access to help is available, and that there is a pathway to supportive housing for those experiencing homelessness.