When a new job fell through, Alyssa suddenly had to figure out how to keep her home while looking for work. She had recently returned to the community, found a stable home, and started a new job. When that job ended without warning, she started looking for work right away. She felt sure she would find another job before her next rent payment was due. A family member was also willing to help if needed. Still, she needed to figure out how to get through the next few weeks.
That’s when Alyssa reached out to HAPCAP. Her situation had more than one problem, but HAPCAP staff helped her look at her options and figure out what to do next. Having some of the money worries taken care of gave Alyssa more time to focus on finding a new job. She kept applying and soon found a new position. After getting her second paycheck, she was able to pay her next month’s rent in full.
But catching up on rent left Alyssa with very little money for her other bills. She was now behind on her electric and natural gas bills. She called her gas provider and set up a payment plan. She also reached out to HAPCAP to see what options were available for her electric bill.
There was another problem. Alyssa had just started her new job and worried that taking time off for an appointment could put her job at risk. HAPCAP staff helped find another way. She was able to complete her appointment by phone, so she did not have to miss work. Staff also worked with her electric company to give her more time before her service was shut off.
What started with the loss of a job had quickly caused problems in other parts of Alyssa’s life. But she kept working through each problem as it came up. She found a new job, kept her home, talked with her utility companies, and reached out for help when she needed it. HAPCAP staff helped her understand her choices and connect with the right resources.
Alyssa’s story is a reminder that money problems are often about more than one bill. Losing a job can quickly affect rent, utilities, transportation, and other basic needs. Sometimes, having someone to talk to, explain the choices, or help find another solution can make a hard situation a little easier.
For Alyssa, things changed quickly, but she kept taking things one step at a time. With some help along the way, she was able to keep her home, start a new job, and work through her unpaid bills. Her story is one example of how HAPCAP works alongside our neighbors to help them find a way forward when life takes an unexpected turn.
Name changed for anonymity.