Case 21
Everyone who crosses her path describes Shirley as compassionate, sweet, sincere, and attentive. When she moved to this country 10 years ago, she had no family or friends awaiting her arrival. Since then, she’s created a career for herself as a caregiver for older adults, which allows her to provide for her 8-year-old daughter. Shirley’s job brings a sense of joy into her life, and she looks forward to connecting with those she cares for each day. When she injured herself on the job, she underwent back surgery, leaving her out of work for some time now. A gift of $400 would allow Shirley to purchase all the things she needs to make Christmas a special day for her and her daughter this year.
Case 22
For Sally’s family of five, it feels as though months of illness has placed an immeasurable burden on their shoulders. The past two months haven’t been easy for her and her fiancé, who has been out of work due to physical health complications. With three children to raise and financial stress at the forefront, this holiday season has been placed on the back burner. A gift of $1,500 would allow Sally and her fiancé to turn things around, even if just for a little while, this Christmas.
Case 23
As a young mom, Dakota Rose’s life completely changed when she gave birth to her son. While her infant son is dependent on her, she’s still dependent on her own mother, who has been out of work and unable to gain a stable income. With no family to rely on for support, their only option has been to utilize community resources. The main barrier keeping this family from financial stability has been their inability to access affordable housing. Now, the three of them are at risk of eviction in the coming months. A gift of $ 1,500 would provide a starting point for them to get back on their feet.
Case 24
Rebecca has always been independent. When her boyfriend moved in with her this year, it made her home of one into a home of two, with Rebecca as the main provider. She’s always been able to make ends meet, but with another person depending on her, she’s finding herself living paycheck to paycheck, often even coming up short some months. A gift of $1,500 would help Rebecca with rising food costs, essentials like toiletries, and even leave some extra for the couple to have a special Christmas this year.
Case 25
Phil’s job search has been harder than most. Recently, he was diagnosed with Autism. His one goal is to be independent and provide for himself. Despite constantly searching for employment, filling out the applications and getting past an initial interview is a struggle he’s working to overcome. He currently lives with a family member who is planning to relocate, but Phil wishes to stay local and create a life for himself here in Western Connecticut. He’s sought support from community resources, including food from local pantries and guidance on his journey to find a job. A gift of $700 would allow Phil to purchase a laptop for job searches, provide gas for the car he owns but is unable to drive due to cost, and ultimately change the trajectory of his current path.
Case 26
With the decision to pursue her Bachelor’s Degree, Julia had to give up her second job to focus on her education. As a single mom with two young daughters, she knew this would place some financial strain on her home but didn’t anticipate just how difficult it would be. While it’s become a struggle to pay bills, the high cost of child care is one of the biggest challenges. A gift of $1,500 would help Julia to keep her daughters in their current program and leave some extra to purchase gifts this Christmas.