There’s No Place Like Home

Community Services

Nancy is a kind, generous woman who enjoys simple things — she eats healthy meals, stays active by taking walks in the park in the Spring, volunteers to help children at Christmas, and feels it’s important to have her family nearby. Four years ago, she was suffering from constant anxiety over how to afford her rent increase.

Mosudi Idowu from Catholic Charities and Nancy

CUTTING BACK ON EXPENSES

Being a naturally frugal person, Nancy is careful to stretch every bit of her income. Back then, she used to resort to separating two-ply toilet paper into one-ply for it to last longer. But no amount of frugality could compete with a rent increase while living on Supplemental Security Income (SSI).

In 2014, Nancy turned to Catholic Charities Community Services as she was facing eviction. Through the Rapid Rehousing program, she found a nice apartment to move into and receives a small amount of assistance to pay her monthly rent. This change allows Nancy to remain within walking distance of her sister, Peggy.

Joking that she would be a bag lady now if it weren’t for Community Services, Nancy is very appreciative of the assistance she receives. “I’m overwhelmed and grateful by the support of Catholic Charities. They have shown so much kindness to me,” she says.

FREEDOM FROM EVICTION ANXIETY

Being true to herself, Nancy is only willing to accept the exact amount of support she needs, and nothing more. When offered additional help— like a Thanksgiving Basket or holiday support—Nancy has selflessly declined, saying: “Please give it to people who need it more.”

Her Catholic Charities Case Manager has seen a change in Nancy. “When I first met her, she was a scared and nervous woman—and very close to being evicted.” But now, Mosudi Idowu says, without the stress of paying that rent increase on her own, she is stable and happy. “She’s come a long way. She has a high spirit of commitment and even volunteers when she can.”

Born on July 5th, Nancy grew up believing that the 4th of July fireworks were a celebration of her birthday. With her 80th birthday approaching this year, Nancy plans to celebrate her independence thanks to her own perseverance—and a little bit of help from Catholic Charities.

For information about our Rapid Rehousing Program in Burlington County call (856) 764-6940 and in Mercer County call (609) 394-8847.

ADDITIONAL STORIES OF INSPIRATION

MEET ROBERT

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MEET ERNEST

Catholic Charities PACT team helped him avoid hospitalization and live independently in the community.
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MEET STEPHANIE

Linkages program provided shelter and stability for her and her children.
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