When Cathy and her family arrived in our community this past June, they carried everything they owned with them, including hope for a better future. Cathy, her husband Benny, their children, and Cathy’s grandmother were living in their van, doing everything they could to survive while searching for stability. Though Benny was able to secure employment, his income alone was not enough to lift a household of five plus a senior family member out of homelessness.

She came to us seeking help and direction for her family. Our team immediately stepped in, enrolling the family into our housing program and walking alongside them as they worked toward a permanent solution. With dedicated case management, advocacy, and unwavering determination from both Cathy and our staff, forward progress began to take shape.

In September, we were able to get Cathy and her Family into our Rapid Rehousing Program and finally move them off the streets and into a safe, stable home. For the first time in months, they could sleep peacefully, knowing their children and grandmother were protected, warm, and secure.

With housing stability came new opportunities. Once off the streets, Cathy was finally able to pursue employment and she succeeded in landing a job that offers not only income but substantial benefits for her family’s future. Benny continues working hard as well, and together they are rebuilding their lives with dignity and purpose. They are making themselves a real part of our community. 

Today, Cathy and Benny still visit Rising Up, not out of crisis, but as part of their continued journey forward. They utilize our food pantry to stretch their resources as they fully regain financial stability. Just yesterday, they received a Thanksgiving turkey, a simple but powerful reminder of how far they’ve come and how much support surrounds them. Their story is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when we rise up together.