Positive Strides

At the age of 62, Meg had worked as a nurse for 30 years. She endured an injury that took her ability to serve as a nurse from her. Dependent solely on social security income for the first time, she found herself facing new limitations and patterns at the end of each month that often resulted in choosing between buying food or paying her bills.

Meg sought help from ECCCM. After listening to her story, her case manager, Shasta, enrolled her in our food program. “You won’t believe how this will help me,” Meg shared. “Having to decide between paying the power bill and eating is not an easy decision!” After receiving food and power bill assistance, Meg attended our Crisis Assistance and Coaching Program (CACP). She received personal financial coaching and worked on goal setting as an effective means to self-sufficiency.

“I am considering going back to school to learn a new skill,” Meg told Patricia, the CACP coach. “I want to supplement my income. I just loved working with the public, and I miss feeling uplifted and rewarded by it. Without the worry of where my next meal is coming from, I am going to pursue school and find at least a part-time job where I can use my love of helping others. You have inspired me to go out and make this happen. Thank you for sharing your knowledge and resources with me!”

Patricia was so happy to see where Meg’s new excitement and knowledge would take her. She could feel Meg’s determination and knew she was on her way to making positive changes.

Your support helps clients like Meg learn financial independence even when their life circumstances change, causing major disruptions in their income. The encouragement and care clients receive at ECCCM, along with the assistance and resources given, inspires clients to make these positive strides. We greatly appreciate the difference your support makes.