JF&CS has been providing support, guidance, and emergency assistance for people facing economic hardship throughout our 150-year history. At the JF&CS Benefit, we shared stories of how JF&CS improves the lives of people and families in need.
Irene* was referred to JF&CS by a friend. She had two children and was four months pregnant with a third. Due to a high-risk pregnancy, she was no longer able to work and had no source of income. She had been living, temporarily, with a friend who required Irene to leave the apartment during the day, which became unsafe for Irene and her unborn baby. JF&CS connected her to legal services that advocated for her to be placed in an emergency shelter at a hotel in Waltham. JF&CS immediately provided Irene and her family with emergency food and gift cards for diapers and other basic necessities. A JF&CS staff person helped Irene complete applications for financial assistance, permanent housing, and negotiated admission into the nearby Head Start program for her children.
The JF&CS staff person also connected Irene to the JF&CS Fragile Beginnings program to provide support during the final trimester of her pregnancy. Unfortunately, severe complications resulted in the death of the baby during delivery. JF&CS staff continued to be a source of emotional support for Irene and continued to help her achieve greater stability. A few months after the loss of her newborn, Irene’s name finally came up at the top of the affordable housing list. JF&CS helped pay for costs associated with the move.
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