At United Way Space Coast, our mission comes to life through the people we serve. Behind every program and partnership is a story of strength, resilience, and possibility.

These are just a few of the lives changed through your support. It’s proof that when we come together as a community, we create the kind of change you can see and feel.

Phillip and PJ: From Uncertainty to Stability

Phillip is a single father doing everything he can to provide for his son, PJ. Juggling multiple jobs over the years, he’s worked hard to stay afloat. But sometimes, hard work just isn’t enough.

When the home they were renting was suddenly sold, Phillip scrambled to find a new place. After paying a deposit on a new rental, he believed things were back on track. He packed up their belongings and got ready to move. But the rental fell through at the last minute, and Phillip and PJ were left without a place to go.

With affordable housing in Brevard out of reach and time working against them, they had no choice but to stay in hotels and, when money ran out, they slept in their car.

Then they found North Brevard Charities. The shelter provided them with a safe place to stay and gave Phillip time to save for something more permanent. Sharing space with strangers wasn’t easy, but it gave them a much-needed stepping stone.

Today, thanks to support from people like you, Phillip and PJ are living in an affordable housing unit through North Brevard Charities. They have a space of their own—and something even more powerful. They have hope.

“We’d like to say thank you. Poverty is a big issue in America, and we’ve lived through it,” said Phillip. “But with United Way and North Brevard Charities, we made it through. We see the light on the other side. If anyone asks whether these programs really work, we’ll tell them—this story is real.”

Alby: Finding Independence and Belonging

At 17, Alby had his whole future planned. He was about to start his senior year of high school and had dreams of joining the Coast Guard. Everything changed in an instant when a drunk driver hit him head-on.

The accident flipped his truck, severed his arm, and caused a traumatic brain injury. Alby slipped into a coma and stayed there for a year. Doctors weren’t hopeful.

But Alby’s mom, Pattie, never gave up. For nearly two decades, she cared for him at home. She tried different group homes, but nothing felt right, until she found Bridges ( The ARC of The Space Coast) and their Springwood residential program. It came at the perfect time, just as Pattie was diagnosed with lung cancer.

At Springwood, Alby found more than care. He found a place to thrive. Through Bridges’ Adult Day Training program, Alby has learned to feed himself, fold towels, and even move his wheelchair using his feet.

“Bridges helped me let go in the best way,” said Pattie. “They showed me how to encourage Alby to be more independent. I never thought he’d be able to do so much.”

By supporting United Way Space Coast, you're helping Alby build skills, confidence and a life filled with purpose. You’re also giving Pattie peace of mind knowing Alby will always be cared for.

Katie: Reclaiming Her Strength

Katie’s relationship started fast. She and her husband moved in together quickly, and before long, things took a dark turn. What began as yelling and controlling behavior escalated to something more dangerous.

He began insisting on driving her to and from work. Then he told her to quit altogether. When she refused, his anger erupted. That day, as he yelled and shook his fists, Katie realized she had to leave.

With the support of friends, she moved out. But that didn’t stop him. He tracked her down and began stalking her. Then came the night he threw her against a car and tackled her when she tried to run. Thankfully, she had been on the phone with a friend who immediately called the police.

That call may have saved her life.

Katie turned to the Women’s Center for help. They created a safety plan and helped her file for protection. Today, she’s divorced, living independently and reclaiming her confidence.

“Your support helped me find my way through a time when I felt broken and lost,” said Katie. “The Women’s Center helped me move forward when I couldn’t see a path. I know this happens to so many women. Thank you for being there.”

Every 43 minutes, someone fears for their life at the hands of someone they once trusted. With your support, United Way Space Coast helps ensure that no one has to face that fear alone.