Keeping a roof over Ashley's Head

Ashley, a 26-year-old, college graduate with a degree in biology resides with her mother and her 3-year-old brother who has special needs and requires surgery. Ashley's mother is not able to work due to the severity of her son's health. She receives SNAP, child support, and has applied for SSI on behalf of her son who is on Medicaid. Ashley’s income is crucial to support of the household. She was laid off 5 months ago and while looking for a new job in her field, she worked as a caregiver to homebound elderly. The pay was substantially less, and the family was not able to make ends meet.

Volunteer Advocates, Joan and James met with the family and quickly discerned that their needs were great and time critical. The rent was late, and she only had $600 of the total amount due ($1,456). The court date was two days away and although SVDP approved assisting the family with rent. Our contribution alone was not enough to pay all the rent plus late fees. We put out a request and our sister conferences quickly responded to our urgent appeal. When we face tough situations like this, we reach out to our sister conferences. They know that we will return the help when they are in need so after appealing to them for help, the remainder of funds needed were quickly provided by our sister conference.

The rent payment was made, and the eviction proceedings were halted before the court date.

FYI.. When Volunteer Advocates met with Ashley to make the rent payment, she greeted them with a big smile and a hug. Ashley had secured a new job with good pay and with benefits! God is Good! All the Time!