Hi, my name is Meredith.

I walked into Catholic Charities’ Emergency Assistance Center with little hope that they could help me. I wasn’t Catholic so I just wasn’t sure. I was very skeptical but I needed help paying my utility bill. The person at the front desk assured me that Catholic Charities services are free and based on need – not religion, race or nationality. I felt better but I was nervous. I had never had to ask for help before.

In meeting with my case manager, I shared that my husband left me and our two teenage kids three months prior. I never had to work because he was the sole provider for our family. I was emotionally devastated and could not think straight. I had used savings to get by over the past three months and had no money to pay for upcoming monthly expenses. I was afraid I’d lose our home. With funds that Catholic Charities received through the AmazonSmile‘s program, Catholic Charities was able to assist me. Who knew people purchasing items through AmazonSmile could help me and other neighbors in need?

My case manager also got an appointment for me with Bishop Sullivan Center for employment services and referred me to a partner agency for rental assistance; and most importantly, connected me with Keeler Women’s Center counselor that very day. After I finished talking with the counselor at Keeler, I stopped by my case manager’s office and asked if I could hug her. I felt hopeful! I thanked my case manager for taking the time to listen to my story and for helping me immediately. I felt welcomed and knew my family was going to be ok.