At United Way of Erie County Community Schools, some of the most important work happens in moments of crisis, when students and families need immediate support to stay safe, stable, and connected to school.
Earlier this year, a family with students at Harding Elementary and Erie High was forced to abruptly leave their home to escape a domestic violence situation, leaving behind nearly all of their belongings. While the family received support through SafeNet, there were immediate gaps when they arrived. One of the children had no clothing available in her size and attended school that first day wearing a Halloween costume.
Thanks to funding provided through the Erie County Bar Association’s Attorneys & Kids Together (AKT) program, Shanna Potter, Harding Elementary’s Community School Director, was able to respond right away. AKT funding was used to purchase clothing and pajamas for each child, simple items that helped restore a sense of dignity and comfort during an incredibly uncertain time.
The funding also ensured the students could continue attending school without interruption. Before district transportation could be arranged, AKT resources were used to provide temporary Uber transportation so the students could get to school. Without that immediate support, they would have missed nearly two weeks of school.
AKT exists to fill critical gaps that other funding sources cannot. While federal McKinney-Vento funding supports students who meet specific homelessness criteria, it does not always reach families who are housing insecure or on the verge of becoming homeless. AKT funding gives Community School Directors the flexibility to act quickly, keeping students engaged in school while longer-term supports are put in place.
As Katie O'Neil, Executive Director of the Erie County Bar Association, shared:
“Service is at the heart of the Erie County Bar Association, and our partnership with the United Way Community Schools is a testament to that. Shanna Potter’s address was a powerful reminder of why the Attorney and Kids Together (AKT) program is so vital. By supporting students and families facing homelessness, our members are sending a clear message: the Erie legal community stands behind every child’s future. We are honored to work with the United Way to create a lasting impact and look forward to growing this effort in 2026.”
United Way of Erie County is deeply grateful for this partnership and the attorneys who make this work possible. Together, we are ensuring that when families face sudden hardship, students are not left behind, and that school remains a place of stability, care, and opportunity.