More than Surviving
You’re the reason Donna and her family are thriving
She didn’t give up – Donna wants to make life better not just for herself, but lead the way for her children.
Donna Brown had a tough year. As the single income provider in her household, she had to keep everyone afloat while staying focused on her journey to financial stability. But she also had to focus on the basics; feed her family, be a mom and a caretaker for her ailing father – all in the midst of a pandemic. More than a year later, because of your unwavering support Donna hasn’t given up. Not even close. And after successfully paying off her first car loan, she’s now applying for another. Having another car ensures her college bound son can come home on breaks.
“Before I found HumanKind, I was unemployed and on public assistance, with no car, no job, living with a family member. Every day I applied for jobs and had to pay people to take me to job interviews.” As a single mother of three children all on the verge of becoming adults themselves, she knew she had to lead the way. Her obstacle continued to be a lack of transportation. And with her current credit history, purchasing a car seemed out of reach.
“My goal is to be financially stable, with a steady job, reliable transportation, own my own home, with good credit and save money for emergencies. And not worry about how I’m going to pay rent, or if we’re going to eat.”
One phone call to HumanKind and her journey began – but at the time she had no idea how far it would take her and become a lifeline for her family. “I had the privilege of purchasing my very first car. But gained so much more than I imagined.”
Then the coronavirus pandemic changed everything. Donna felt the impact; from reduced work hours to job changes, and supporting her children through this difficult time. And one of the most challenging parts was caring for her father from a distance, already battling health problems. Devastatingly, after having the coronavirus he passed away in September of 2020.
“I have been blessed in so many ways this year because of good people like you. I just pray that I will be in a position to do the same for someone else, paying it forward.”
“Donna never quit even though covid really affected her family, she didn’t give up,” shares financial coach Shanika McClelland. Donna’s coach provided resources to keep her family safe.
Her coach helped her get approved for a new car loan, and has continued to connect her with resources. Donna was just accepted into the Start Up for Success pilot program by partner Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC) – launching emerging entrepreneurs. Donna is hopeful her dreams of becoming a small business owner are within reach.
“My plans are to open a restaurant and make food to ‘feed the soul’. I want a flexible schedule, make retirement plans and be able to enjoy my grandchildren when they get here. I want to build my brand, save, and enjoy life while I’m here.”
You were the difference in Donna’s life. Without you, she might not have weathered this crisis. Thank you for being a light in the middle of this dark time. Right now there are people, who much like Donna, need someone to walk with her through these challenging times. Because of you and your support, help and resources are ready and waiting for a neighbor in need.
Learn more about the Ways to Work program at HumanKind by visiting here.