Thinking about money can be hard. Sometimes it can just seem easiest to ignore it completely. But not planning for or thinking about our finances might mean that there isn’t enough to cover the things we really need. That’s why it makes sense to try and come up with a plan, a spending plan/budget, for your money.
When Sandra and Reuben first met their Economic Mobility caseworker, they were at their wit’s end. They were about to lose their electricity and water. They didn’t know how they would afford his medical supplies. Their finances were, Sandra admits, “overwhelming.” But your generous support is helping them reach for stability again.
Schawniekaw has worked three jobs sometimes to keep a roof over her family’s head. Still, it’s not enough. With the threat of eviction looming over her head, she turned to the community for help.
Last year, Julia shared her story of Thanksgiving after a visit to Crisis Assistance Ministry. Yet, hidden in that one brief moment were so many more moments of loss, resilience, and hope. This fall, Julia shared her journey with Crisis Assistance Ministry volunteers gathered for their annual recognition dinner. Here, in her own words, is her story.
“I know I am lucky. So many people need that kind of help and don’t have family and friends who are able to give it,” says Dywoine Massey. “I can relate to the situations moms and dads are in when they come here. That could have been me.” That’s what motivates him to keep coming back every day to his role coaching individuals and families beyond their immediate crisis toward economic mobility.
“People are really here to help you,” says Shaniora, an aspiring baker who found herself needing help when chronic illness and surgery derailed her plans to support herself while finishing her degree. Thanks to the support of our community, Crisis Assistance Ministry is thankful to be here for neighbors like Shaniora.
Kim is a portrait of resilience and persistence. After a medical emergency and a job layoff left her and her children at risk of eviction, she turned to Crisis Assistance Ministry for help. Thanks to community support, she found a way forward and few “small miracles” along the way.
William had it all – a happy family, a wonderful place to live, and a great job. All of that changed quickly and unexpectedly. With your help, his story on the upswing and he wouldn’t be smiling without your support.
