Kelly was referred to UCM six months ago because she needed housing assistance.  When she sat down with a Basic Needs counselor for an initial assessment, it quickly became clear that Kelly was facing many other hardships in her life.  She was unemployed, struggling to keep up with bills, and raising her son alone. Her son was having problems at school and both she and her son were in poor health.  
   
UCM's Basic Needs counselor provided Kelly with information about how to apply for unemployment benefits and how to obtain medical assistance. About six weeks later, Kelly began receiving unemployment benefits. Still, she contacted the counselor one afternoon to say that she had been feeling hopeless because of unpaid bills and no ability to pay them on her very limited income. The counselor worked with Kelly to develop a budget, assisted her with Holiday Food and Gift Room presents for her son, provided funds for utilities, and connected her with other community agencies and support groups.
 
To address Kelly's concerns about her son, the counselor referred him to UCM's program for disadvantaged youth, which includes after-school tutoring.
 
Kelly's circumstances began improving, but she still faced big challenges.  Job loss and  lack of a support system had taken their toll. Kelly was showing symptoms of depression and her counselor referred her to an appropriate medical professional. Throughout, the Basic Needs counselor provided Kelly with the caring support she needed to get through this difficult time, treating her with dignity and empathy.  Together, Kelly and the counselor explored her interests, strengths, and goals.  Kelly began attending a support group and volunteering with UCM's Angel Food Ministry distributions.  Soon, she reported feeling better.  She had more energy to go on and make plans for the future. 
 
Not long after that, the counselor helped Kelly get gas and clothing vouchers for a job interview.   Kelly was successful in her interview and started a new job in late December.  Today, Kelly is still an active volunteer with UCM and her health continues to improve.  During her last visit, she was very energetic and optimistic about the future for her and her son.  She was very thankful for the help she received from UCM.  She was particularly grateful for the respect and genuine regard she received from her counselor, saying, "I feel like I'm really important to you. Thank you." 
 
* All names have been changed to protect client privacy.