Keys to Her Future
Amanda was a single mother of three when she lost her job in retail during the COVID 19 pandemic. When a statewide eviction moratorium ended, she also lost her home. “I tried to work with my landlord on setting up a payment plan, but he wouldn’t help me. My credit score was so bad, I couldn’t find a place to live.”
After all her options were exhausted, Amanda ended up sleeping in her car. That’s when she came to The Salvation army in Kent County and learned about the Housing Assistance Program (HAP). The program connects people who are literally homeless or at imminent risk of homelessness, to the best available housing resource.
While Amanda qualified for assistance, there were no affordable rentals available, so she was placed on a waiting list. Her caseworker connected with a partner agency, who placed them in a shelter and then a hotel room.
“I was overwhelmed. I was so happy that people were willing to help me. I was so grateful!”
Several months later, Amanda finally received the keys and moved her family into her new home in January.
“It’s still so surreal to me. I have a place for me and my kids. I don’t ever want to lose it.”
While she is working again, it’s still difficult to make ends meet. Through the case management Amanda receives from The Salvation Army, she is working on financial stability, developing a budget and a savings plan so that she can stay in her home.
If you or someone you know is experiencing housing needs, you can call 616-454-5840 and press option #1.
Our Housing Assessment Hours are Monday-Thursday, 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM, and Fridays 9:30 AM to 4:00 PM.