United Way of the Coastal Empire recently received a $1,200 donation from the Bridge Club of Liberty County. The gift was made in honor Kathryn Racanelli Haymans, the mother of United Way of the Coastal Empire’s President and CEO Brynn Grant, who passed away in July 2004. 

“I am so moved and thankful for this special gift. My mom played bridge with these incredible women, so many of her best friends, all her adult life,“ expressed Grant. “I love each one of them, and I am so grateful to have such incredible role models of strength, character, love, faith, and friendship.” 

With about 40 members, these women have seen each other through every season of life – through marriages, children, sickness, health, and the passing of loved ones. These were the ladies who showed up for each other. They shared recipes, planned weddings, hosted baby showers, celebrated anniversaries, delivered food, and held each other’s’ hands through great losses.

Now, this circle of women is offering support for those struggling most through the coronavirus pandemic by giving to the United Way in their friend’s honor. The group has not met since March, but they organized a fundraising campaign. On June 15, they presented a check to  Vice President of Direct Services/Liberty County Area Director Jennifer Darsey and to Grant. 

This donation could not have meant more to Grant personally, but it’s also a powerful message about the caring power of the community. The same ladies who have been showing up for each other for decades are showing up for others they will likely never meet. Compassion in action; words followed by deeds is exactly what it means to Live United. 

United Way will use every dollar of this donation to help individuals and families retain stable housing by assisting with rent, mortgage, and utility payments when grace periods are not offered and to provide financial assistance for additional critical needs such as medical expenses and child care. Additionally, United Way continues to support partner agencies, especially those that demonstrate an increase in demand for services due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

To date, more than $620,000 has been raised to help those in need since the coronavirus pandemic began. More than 1,300 people in Bryan, Chatham, Effingham, and Liberty Counties have been assisted so far. 

To give to the United Way COVID-19 Rapid Response Fund, visit www.uwce.org or text UWCOVID19 to 41444.