A Mother’s Hope, A Family Reunited

Marta was devastated after an accident at home resulted in the separation of her newborn baby boy and 2-year-old daughter from their home. Her infant had been born prematurely after a complicated pregnancy and difficult delivery. She was home alone caring for both children when Marta’s two-year-old jumped from the bed while Marta was holding her newborn baby. Attempting to prevent her two-year-old from hurting herself, the baby in her arms was caught in the way. By morning, some bruises appeared on his arm. Marta took the baby to the doctor to be checked and to make sure everything was okay. Sadly, this incident triggered a series of major events and changes in the family that resulted in overwhelming emotional distress for Marta and her children. Both children were removed from their mother and legal proceedings were started to investigate the possible causes of the injuries.

Unable to carry on with any of her normal activities, she reached out to Catholic Charities and was connected with one of our bilingual mental health therapists, meeting at our office near her home in Kenosha. Our therapist provided ongoing support to help Marta cope with the separation of her children and provide a sense of hope that the family could be reunited. Psychologically and emotionally these years have been very challenging for Marta. Thankfully, after two years of separation it was concluded that the children could return to their mother. Now that the children are back with their parents, we share the satisfaction of helping Marta navigate the deep sorrow and uncertainty of the separation. At the same time the counseling services have helped Marta prepare emotionally for the return of her children.

Healthy Food, Stable Homes: United Way’s Impact in Rural Kenosha

A rural family of four has leaned on The Sharing Center for seven years. After health challenges left them homeless with young children, United Way funding helped them secure permanent housing and remain stably housed.

One family member required a costly, specialized diet that strained the family’s food budget. The Sharing Center stepped in, stocking the product in its pantry and connecting them with resources. Soon after, two more families in need were identified—leading to the Center’s transformation into a Healthy Choice Food Pantry.

Now, the pantry offers allergy-friendly, low-sodium, low-sugar, plant-based, and other specialized options. Programs like Spice of the Month, the Children’s Summer Nutrition Program, and an on-site garden further ensure access to fresh, nutritious food for rural families.

The United Way's financial contributions have allowed the Center to invest in high-quality, nutritious food to equitably support almost 4,000 rural residents annually and to daily offer the healthiest, culturally appropriate food to low-income and homeless families in rural Kenosha County.

More Than a Meal

At 92 years old, Evelyn Beranek lives alone and looks forward to her Meals on Wheels deliveries—often the highlight of her day. Her drivers are among the few people she sees regularly, and she never misses a chance to share her gratitude.

Recently, Evelyn called to say, “The meal today was especially delicious! It really hit the spot. I’m so thankful for you all. You’re all so nice to me when I call you too.”

For Evelyn, Meals on Wheels provides more than daily nutrition—it offers connection, care, and community. She’s a beautiful reminder of why this program is so vital.