Catholic Charities’ Family Self-Sufficiency Program supports single parents from low-income households as they advance their career, housing, and financial goals and work toward long-term independence. In the last year, 93% of those served in the Lake County FSS program obtained or maintained stable housing and 67% of clients secured employment. Work is underway to renew the program to further improve outcomes, maximize long-term impact, and serve more families.
Supporting single parents toward lasting independence
With support and accompaniment, single parents served through the FSS program overcome health, employment, housing, and other life challenges and learn how to navigate community resources to find support and maintain stable housing. They earn job certificates, secure full-time employment, and often for the first time, save up for or successfully buy a first home:
- Lisa* left a toxic relationship, overcame homelessness, and recently moved into a new apartment.
- Carolina* is completing her bachelor’s degree in education, purchased land, and is planning a move across the country.
- Sarah* bought a new vehicle after experiencing a car accident and reset her credit score.
- Leticia* has built up her savings and is sending her child to college.
Since she joined the program, Paulette has maintained steady employment as a bus driver, enabling her to support herself and her daughter.
“I am truly grateful for all the help and guidance that was shown to me and my children as we navigated through the program,” says Paulette, who recently completed the program. “The program was instrumental in helping me achieve my goal of self-sufficiency, and I learned so much from the Saturday morning, in-person sessions on self-care, credit building, home ownership, remaining debt-free, and even gardening.”
“Thank you for all your support and guidance, I truly appreciate all your hard work.”
The Family Self-Sufficiency program creates “a domino effect”
Reagan Piechowski took over as program manager in February and is coordinating the case management team in supporting the program’s current participants.
“I think it’s important to recognize the achievements people complete with us,” Reagan says. “This is a domino effect: We help participants, and they go back to their communities and help others find food pantries, financial assistance and education, continuing education, employment, mental and physical health resources.”
Not only are they able to connect in the community to get what they need — they leave the program ready to help others in need find resources and support.
“The commitment these individuals make to change their lives and the lives of their children in the most positive way cannot be overstated,” says Laura. “It is an honor to accompany them. We are excited about their futures and about the future of our program.”
Your gift creates this same stability for other moms across Cook and Lake counties. Start this school year off strong by making a gift to a family in need.