Why the Annual Fund Drive Matters

The Annual Fund Drive fuels our core programs, keeps our services running strong, and allows us to respond to the evolving needs of our community. It’s not about one-time impact, it is about ongoing change and momentum.

Whether addressing an immediate crisis or helping someone build lasting stability, we’re there. Your gift makes it possible for us to show up every day with real solutions — and we’re excited to share the tangible impact your support is creating right here in our community.

Through the Annual Fund Drive, we invite you to stand with us once again to ensure that Ephrata Area Social Services can continue delivering the programs, resources, and hope our community relies on.

Finding Hope at EASS

Erica, a single mother of four, has faced unimaginable challenges. After being diagnosed with a brain disease in 2022, she lost her job struggled to provide for her family. Between her own health, caring for her children—including a daughter with epilepsy—and supporting her father after a serious accident, life felt overwhelming.

Her first step through the doors of EASS came when a school form for the back-to-school backpack program led her to us. “I felt like I could finally breathe a little better,” Erica said. “It’s okay to reach out. It’s not a reflection of my parenting or me as a person.”

That visit opened the door to more support. Erica discovered that EASS could also help with transportation, something she had struggled with since losing her transportation. “At 38, I should be able to get in my car and go to an appointment, but it’s not my normal anymore. To have those resources there means everything.”

She recalls with tears in her eyes the day she picked up the bags from the back-to-school event. ”That trunk opened, and I can’t tell you…my kids were so excited. Just those bags meant the world.”

Erica shares her story to inspire others: “Just stop in, see what they can do.”

2026 EASS Annual Fund Drive

A New Name. Same Heart for the Community. Your support changes lives