Hi, I’m Jenny.

I had been employed for four years at a local hotel. When my kids’ childcare provider was arrested, I lost my job because I couldn’t find childcare for my two kids.

I was desperate for a job! I confided in a friend and she suggested I go to Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas for help. I didn’t think I could get help there because I’m not Catholic. She shared with me that Catholic Charities services are free and based on need – not religion, race or nationality. So I called and made an appointment.

Once I got to the office, the case manager assessed my situation and discovered I needed childcare, a driver’s license and funds for gas. The case manager and I worked on a job search and I applied at Amazon.

I completed my two interviews and was offered the job with Amazon but by this point I was also behind on my car payment. My case manager was able to purchase my driver’s license and made the referral for state paid daycare. After I was hired, my case manager helped by making the $150.00 car payment which I was behind on. The money came from the Cars4KC fund which I had heard of before but didn’t realize it was a Catholic Charities’ fund. I also started working with my case manager on budgeting.

I was all set to begin my new job when my car broke down! My case manager was able to locate a mechanic to look at my car and he was able to make the repairs free of charge to get my car running again.

I’m now gainfully employed at $13.75 an hour plus benefits; I’m continuing with my budget coaching with my case manager; and, I love my new job. My children are also safe and secure in a State Licensed Daycare which gives me peace of mind while I’m at work. And now, my goal is to let everyone know when it’s time for them to get a new car to donate their old ones to Catholic Charities so they can help local families in need.