|
Sandi (not her real
name) was a 26 year-old single mom with a ten-month-old son. She
finally left her partner who suffered with on-going severe mental
illness which cause erratic and abusive behavior. With less than a year
to go to complete her Surgical Technician degree, Sandi was working
part-time cleaning houses. She did not want to give up
her
educational goals. However, Sandi did not have money for a security
deposit and rent, nor did she have family or friends who could provide
housing on an on-going basis. Sandi... was homeless and turned to
Couleecap, Inc. for help.
Sandi participated
Couleecap's Transitional Housing Program (THP) for 22 months. Through
the program, she received a safe and sanitary home, individualized case
management, and supportive services to help her overcome barriers and
plan for a successful future. Sandi signed up for Childcare Assistance
and WHEAP (Wisconsin Home Energy Assistance Program). THP helped to
provide school supplies and books as well as uniforms and shoes needed
for her internship and on-going employment. Life skills training for
Sandi focused on interviewing skills and resume preparation; parenting
and time management to help her balance school, work, and family; and
money management to help her clean up back bills and develop good
budgeting habits.
Upon graduating from
School, Sandi had a choice of several job offers but accepted a position
at an area hospital, earning $15.30/hr., with full medical and dental
insurance coverage. She took over responsibility of her own lease and
enrolled in Couleecap’s first-time homebuyer program. In the year
following she was able to purchase her own home! |
|
