Jessica’s Story

LCOC Helps Single Mother With Rent

Personal problems often trigger financial problems, making it that much harder to heal. After her husband left her, Jessica (not her real name) was faced with eviction because the rent on her home in Chatham was in arrears, threatening the stability she needed with a young daughter to raise.

Not knowing where else to turn, she contacted the Lower Cape Outreach Council, a nonprofit organization whose mission is to help local residents who are facing financial difficulties. Headquartered in Orleans, LCOC serves all eight Lower Cape towns, helping people through whatever financial crisis they may be facing. LCOC also manages 9 emergency food pantries and Katy’s Korner, a free clothing and resource center. Led by a licensed social worker, volunteer advocates work with clients to determine the best way to help, whether it’s providing an oil delivery, paying a utility bill, or, as in Jessica’s case, helping with housing costs.

Although Jessica initially asked for only a small amount of money to help her catch up, her case worker realized she needed more, and worked to put together a plan.

The Lower Cape Outreach Council often collaborates with other charitable organizations and agencies, and in this case teamed with two other agencies to get Jessica’s back rent paid. In addition, LCOC was able to obtain a housing voucher to make her rent more affordable going forward.

The assistance helped her get back on her feet financially, and she is now able to pay her rent and living expenses.

“I am so grateful because we can stay in our home and my daughter will not have to change schools,” she said. “Before LCOC stepped in, I couldn’t sleep at night because I was so worried about my daughter and how we were going to live.”

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