Finding Security and Peace of Mind

I am a 29 year old single mother. I have two beautiful daughters and I work hard to support us. I have worked at the same job for the past three years. It is hard to pay the bills every month. Recently I became eligible for an affordable housing voucher. This made it possible for me to move out of the projects and into an apartment of my own choice.

I had enough for my first months rent, but was not able to find the $1,000 I needed for a security deposit. There is no way I could ever save that much.

Fortunately, someone told me about a security deposit loan program, funded by United Way. I was able to get $500 as a grant that I don’t have to pay back, and $500 as a loan. I also received financial education training, learned about keeping a monthly budget plan, and also learned about my credit report.

Today my monthly rent payment is more affordable. And I am building credit by paying back my loan. Things are looking much brighter for me and my girls. I would be trapped if it weren’t for this program helping me move into my own safe place.

Our community agencies are out there every day helping people makes ends meet. But the number of people in need of these services has grown to the point where help is getting harder to find. 

The programs providing basic needs in our neighborhoods are seeing unprecedented numbers of new families coming through their doors. An increase of 40% is not uncommon for most to report. The Take Five to Give 5 campaign will send 100% of your donation to these organizations that are meeting basic needs for families and individuals throughout the community.

Whatever amount you can give will help change lives. Tell five friends. Use your network, share the stories, and ask them to give to the campaign. Your gift multiplies with every person you connect with.