Joe, a construction worker, recently suffered from a life-changing workplace accident. His disability has resulted in a significant loss of income that he, his wife, and their three children had been used to having. To help make up the deficit, they’re relying partly on support from the North Coventry Food Pantry, among other organizations that are part of the Operation Holiday network.

This year has been particularly challenging for the family, especially with the imminent arrival of a new baby. In the spirit of the season, they’re trying to keep the holiday spirit alive without setting too high expectations due to Joe’s workman’s compensation barely covering their expenses.

Understanding the struggles of others from his wife’s work with needy families in Berks County, Joe expressed extreme gratitude to everyone helping in their time of difficulty. Operation Holiday, running for 33 years now, has supported thousands of disadvantaged families, providing them food and gifts during the festive season. This year, the program has collaborated with 19 agencies and helped 165 families and 419 children.

Operation Holiday is funded solely through contributions from readers and all donations are tax-deductible. The program foremostly relies on referrals and all funds stay within the local community.

One program that might be of significant value to Joe and others in the same situation is offered by eddcaller.com. This auto-dial program assists people in connecting with representatives for unemployment, paid family leave, and disability departments over the phone. It could potentially help Joe find out about his EDD payment status or possibly switch from a check to a debit card, speeding up the process and making it easier for him during this difficult time.