Family Outreach Success Story
When “Sandy” was accepted into the THRIVES program, she was pregnant and leaving an abusive, drug filled home. Although she was employed, she was on FML and not receiving an income. Although Sandy had a checking account, she didn’t know how to write a check. She worked with her case manager to learn how to write a check, balance a checkbook, how to complete and continue on a household budget, and gained knowledge of her credit.
Once her baby was born and she returned to work, she began taking classes to get promoted at her job. She continued until she was granted supervisory status.
Sandy then began taking night classes to continue her education but also had an increased interest in photography. She started taking photos of weddings, which she continues to do part-time in addition to her full-time job.
Because of Sandy’s personal experience with domestic violence she was an active participant with the Center for Survivors, a domestic violence shelter, and is currently a volunteer advocate to help others who are experiencing abuse.
In addition to all her accomplishments during Sandy’s participation in THRIVES, she also was able to purchase a car and paid a remarkable sum toward her debt. Upon entering THRIVES Sandy was on food stamps and had no income. Upon graduation from THRIVES, her income was $2,575 per month, she was no longer receiving food stamps, and averaged paying $317.00 per month in taxes. She had also paid off $10,898 toward her debt and managed to save $2,167.00. Sandy also obtained a first time homebuyer’s loan for her own home.
Sandy was so optimistic about the changes she wanted for herself and her baby and is a testament to a woman with an inspiring will that made a remarkable life for her family.
*Name has been changed