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YWCA Elgin
Providing a hand-up
Have you ever been so physically and mentally
worn down by life’s misfortunes that you cry in public? Most of
us can deal with the daily rituals and demands of the work place. However,
when one compounds an already difficult life with a child suffering
from cancer, a spouse who abandons you and your children, you might
understand Mary’s situation.
Imagine your household income suddenly decreasing by 50%. You
are barely surviving on two incomes and now must cope with less money
and are still trying to pay the bills for your oldest child’s cancer
treatment. In a situation like this, life can become overwhelming even
for the strongest willed of us.
Recently at the YWCA, we had noticed Mary was more stressed than
usual. Mary is a 27-year-old mother of two children. The eldest one is
9 years old and has survived cancer with it now being in remission for
three years. Fortunately, the 7-year-old daughter has not been inflicted
with cancer. Mary’s husband of 10 years abandoned Mary and her children.
Mary’s life was in a crisis point. Mary had come into the lobby
at the YWCA Elgin crying. After a brief greeting, Mary was ushered into
the office and she blurted out what was happening in her life.
This sudden loss of income had Mary struggling to keep her house
from foreclosure and losing her car. An automobile for a single parent
is a lifeline. Without transportation, Mary would not be able to keep
her job.
Mary was under the impression she was alone. After talking with
Mary, it became very clear to staff that the family needed assistance.
We were able to provide a United Way Scholarship for childcare to help
the family through this difficult time. Because she received assistance
with childcare she was able to focus on the other problems.
Mary did lose her house and car, but through careful planning
she secured an apartment and an older car. It was a combination of support
that pulled Mary and her children through the crisis. She was so inspired
by the generous community support that now she donates back to help other
families in need. While her $25 donation may not seem like a lot, to a
family in need it could mean the state required co-payment could be met
during a time of crisis. The children then will remain in a safe and affordable
setting and the parent can continue working.
We all have times in our life where a hand-up is not a hand-out.
Your donation to United Way makes a difference!
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CASA
Volunteer Remains the Only Constant in Their Turbulent Lives
YWCA Elgin
- Providing a Hand-up
A New Beginning
to Life
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Guidance on the Path to Happiness and Recovery
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