The calls come in weekly when school is in session.

A child doesn’t have food on the weekend. A teenager doesn’t have a bed sleep in and is falling behind in school because they are tired. A kindergarten student’s shoes are falling apart. Their parents work hard to make ends meet, but sometimes the money does not come together.

Teachers, counselors, administrators, and other school employees work diligently to make sure every student is cared for. They recognize the strengths and potential in their students. They see children who are eager to learn, who show up every day ready to do their best, even when life outside the classroom is difficult. That is why they turn to United Way of Bartholomew County’s Student Support Line.

With one call, the Student Support Line connects schools to immediate help. Most of the time, a child’s need is met within one business day, so they can quickly get back to focusing on learning.

Thanks to a sponsorship from First Financial Bank, even more more children will receive the support they need through the Student Support Line. This contribution is an investment in the well-being and future success of local students. It helps ensure children have access to basic items that make a big difference, including beds, food, shoes, and other essentials that help them feel seen, heard, and cared for.

When a call comes in, Alicia Monroe, Volunteer Center Director at United Way of Bartholomew County, quickly takes action. She connects with local agencies and leverages United Way’s broad network of social service partners across Bartholomew County. Many times, community resources are able to meet the need. When they aren’t, the Student Support Line fund steps in to bridge the gap. Thanks to First Financial Bank’s generous gift, this fund will be even stronger, ready to support families when they need it most

“This gift is critical to helping ensure the Student Support Line has the resources to meet basic needs for our kids,” said Alicia. “This money means students in our community feel taken care of and heard.”

Families in Bartholomew County are working hard. Schools are filled with caring adults who notice and respond. The Student Support Line helps make sure that when a child needs a little extra support, the community is ready to step in quickly. Thanks to First Financial Bank’s generosity, even more students will have what they need to succeed.