When so much feels uncertain and unsettled, choose to be a source of stability in our community.

Life can take unexpected turns, as Natalie discovered over a decade ago when her marriage came to an end and she suddenly found herself juggling the challenges of single working motherhood. With young children to care for and a budget that often barely stretched to cover groceries, the pressure was stressful. That’s when Natalie learned about the Food Pantry at WayForward Resources.

Having access to the pantry gave Natalie peace of mind knowing her kids had the nutritious food needed to learn and grow. It allowed her to fill in the gaps with her budget so she could allocate her limited resources towards rent and other essentials.

However, as housing costs rose over the years, the rent increases for Natalie’s apartment had outpaced her income. When her lease renewal time arrived this year, she made the tough decision not to renew. Unfortunately, her search for a new place within her budget came up short, leaving her and her teenage daughter, Emma, without a home. They moved into an extended stay hotel, which was even more financially draining than their previous rent.

Through her connection with the WayForward Food Pantry, Natalie learned about the Housing Stability program and reached out for help. She met with a case manager who referred her to a brand-new affordable housing development, and two months later, she received the good news that she was approved to move into her new home. WayForward assisted with the entry costs at her new place, where the monthly rent is lower, making her financial situation far more manageable. Additionally, remaining in the same neighborhood means her daughter can stay at her school, maintaining friendships and continuity in her education. Natalie feels a renewed sense of hope for a brighter, more stable future for her and her family. 

 “Once again, thank you for everything that you have done for me and my family,” shared Natalie with her case manager Laurie Horton. Laurie responded, “It’s your neighbors who made this possible.” 

With your support, we’re making a difference in people’s lives, like Natalie and Emma’s.

Give Today to Create Stability. Here. Now. And for the Future.

*A representative name and photo have been used, and identifying details changed, to protect client confidentiality.