In 2023, New Bethany received $150,000 from the Be a Housing Hero fund, a collaborative effort between United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley and the PPL Foundation, established to provide immediate relief to the growing number of individuals and families facing housing insecurity in the Lehigh Valley. With housing instability on the rise, these funds played a pivotal role in preventing eviction and providing critical support to families at risk of homelessness.

The grant received by New Bethany not only helped the organization provide rental assistance to 157 individuals across 59 households, ensuring that families could remain in their homes and avoid the trauma of displacement, but also enabled the nonprofit to continue its mission of addressing the root causes of poverty and homelessness, making a lasting impact on the lives of its most vulnerable neighbors. 

The distribution of funds specifically targeted households experiencing the greatest need, with the majority of recipients falling within the income bracket defined by the federal government as “very low-income.” Notably, over 80% of those assisted were from African American, Hispanic, and multi-racial communities, highlighting New Bethany’s commitment to addressing the housing instability faced by BIPOC populations.  

Additionally, more than 70% of households supported by the grant were women-headed, who are often disproportionately impacted by financial hardship, as well as individuals with disabilities. By prioritizing these vulnerable groups, New Bethany’s rental assistance played a crucial role in addressing the systemic inequities that contribute to housing insecurity, helping ensure that those most in need received the support required to maintain stability.

This data represents more than just numbers; it reflects the real lives of families and individuals who are striving for stability and a better future. These are community members who, through New Bethany’s support, are given the chance to rebuild their lives, regain their footing and thrive. By focusing on the people behind the data, New Bethany provides not only financial assistance but also dignity, hope and the stability needed to build a brighter future.

Here are a few stories of how New Bethany utilized funds from the Be a Housing Hero grant to support neighbors in need:

  • A single mother with two teenage children, struggling to keep up with rent after a difficult divorce, faced imminent eviction. With help from New Bethany’s Housing Advocate, the family secured rental assistance, preventing eviction and allowing them to regain stability.
  • Another impactful case involved the Smith* household, who owed over $7,900 in back rent. Although the Be a Housing Hero funding could only provide $3,500 in assistance, the client was able to secure additional help from informal supports overseas, ultimately preventing eviction.
  • Lastly, Michelle*, a mother of four, was referred to New Bethany after her family faced repossession of their home. With prompt action and quick processing of her application, Michelle’s family was able to remain housed and continue working with New Bethany on achieving long-term stability.

Although New Bethany has helped dozens of households avoid eviction and maintain their stability through the funds from Be a Housing Hero, the need for this support remains urgent, with many families still at risk of losing their homes. 

The generosity of partners like PPL Foundation and United Way enables organizations like New Bethany to make a lasting difference in the lives of our neighbors. 

Together, we can help end housing insecurity and ensure that everyone has a safe and secure place to call home.

*Name changed for anonymity.