United Way Helps Families Cover Prescription Costs

For Long Islanders without health insurance or who are in need of medications not covered by their insurance plan, there is help. FamilyWize prescription drug discount cards are being distributed by United Way of Long Island that can lower the cost of medicine by an average of 35%. United Way provides discount cards free-of-charge to all Long Islanders. There are no age or income restrictions and no limit on how many times you can use the benefit.

"Healthcare costs are one of the top concerns for people in our communities," said United Way of Long Island President & CEO Christopher Hahn. "Forty percent of adults don't buy the medicine they need, have difficulty affording it or reduce the required dosage because of the high cost. The FamilyWize prescription drug discount cards will help individuals and families who otherwise could not afford to buy the medicine they need. Too many Long Islanders have insufficient coverage, no prescription coverage or need medications not covered by their insurance, Medicare, Medicaid or VA benefits."

"So many people and organizations have come together to make this possible," said Regnante. "We invite all area organizations and local businesses to contact us for a supply of cards, for their employees and their families."

Participating pharmacies across Long Island have voluntarily agreed to accept the FamilyWize cards and provide these savings to people in need. Brown Printing of Bethlehem, PA, donated the printing for the cards, FedEx Express donated the shipping of the cards and the pharmacy benefit manager provided a portion of the processing fee to cover the administrative costs. United Way of Long Island is coordinating the distribution of the cards locally.

"We hope everyone in the community will take the time to thank their pharmacist, United Way of Long Island, and everyone else involved for the difference they are making in the lives of so many people in the community," said Dan Barnes, Co-Chair of the FamilyWize Community Service Partnership.

Download your prescription card here. To receive a card by mail or for additional information or email us or call 631.940.3740.