Natalie and Jacob were doing everything they could to make ends meet. They were both employed at a department store in Tampa and were proud parents of twin 4 year old boys, Dylan and Tim. Each month was a challenge, but they managed to put together enough money to keep the power on and the landlord happy.

When Natalie learned she was pregnant, she knew it would make things much more difficult. Her company had maternity benefits that would help in the interim time between when she had the baby and when she went back to work.  They would still be able to afford their apartment and basic expenses.

Their plan seemed to be on track when Natalie entered the final trimester of her pregnancy. One morning she woke and things didn't feel right.  She was able to see her OB/GYN that day and her doctor let her know she was having complications that could put the baby at-risk. She was advised to take a leave of absence from work.

The loss of income meant that the rent and electric bill would not get paid, so Natalie and Jacob turned to the Family Stabilization department at the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay. They took a Money Matters financial literacy class and worked with Alex, a Crisis Center case manager. Their case manager was able to help them obtain United Way last resort funds to help with their rent, and he also helped them to obtain funds to cover their electricity costs.

Natalie and Jacob were able to weather the storm of financial instability until they had their baby daughter, Bella.  Natalie was then able to receive her maternity benefits, and she recently returned to her job so they could pay all their bills.

Even the best laid plans can be disrupted by a crisis. A medical problem, car repair, or disruption of benefits can destabilize a hard-working family, putting them at risk of homelessness and poverty.  Your support of the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay helps ensure that people like Natalie and Jacob don't have to face crisis alone.