JFS
Communications enjoys bringing you important updates about our agency
through our blog. This is another update for our new feature, where we share
personal client stories and vignettes about how JFS was able to make a
difference in their lives.
We are so proud to be able to help those in our community who need it most!
Ron & Elaine's Story:
Ron and Elaine were a comfortable middle-class family when the
unexpected happened: at age 56, Ron was hurt on the job and was forced
to retire long before he planned. At first, their income came solely
from Elaine’s wages from her full-time job at a local drug store.
Later, Ron qualified for disability and SSI (Supplementary Security
Income) but it wasn’t enough to cover their mortgage, grocery bill, car
payment, utilities, clothing and the medical care Ron needs. In a matter
of months, the couple used up their savings and even began to dip into
their small retirement accounts to make up the difference.
When even that did not prove to be enough, they did what they never expected to have to do – they came to SOVA.
In addition to receiving free and
nutritious groceries, Ron and Elaine met with a specially trained
volunteer in JFS { SOVA’s Resource Center, who helped connect them with
on-site representatives from the County DPSS who helped them qualify for
CalFresh (food stamp) benefits. They also received assistance with
their electric and water bill from a representative from the Home Energy
Assistance Program, who was also at the pantry that day. An on-site
job counselor provided Ron with information on a training program for
people with disabilities.
All this help has enabled the
couple to begin to get back on their feet. They visit the pantry
regularly and no longer have to skip meals or "forget" to fill
prescriptions. Ron has also begun to train for a new job that he can do
from home and they hope not to need to visit the pantry for too much
longer. They are grateful for SOVA’s help at this extraordinarily
challenging period of their lives.
In
order to continue bringing these important programs and resources to those who
need it most, we need your support. We cannot do it alone.
For more information about making a donation
to JFS {SOVA, please contact Carol Bar-Or at cbaror@jfsla.org.
