LCOC Financial Assistance Programs Help Through Unpredictable Winter Seasonal Work
When Amanda began falling behind on her rent this spring, she turned to the Lower cape Outreach Council for assistance. The agency stepped in to provide emergency rental assistance that helped her remain safely housed during a difficult season. For Amanda, the support offered more than financial relief – it provided stability, reassurance, and the ability to continue moving forward without the immediate fear of losing her home.
Amanda has worked in the Outer Cape’s seasonal restaurant industry for years and understands the challenges that come with the region’s fluctuating economy. During the busy summer season, she routinely works two jobs to prepare for the slower winter months ahead. Her days often begin before sunrise with breakfast shifts at a local café and end late at night after serving dinner at a popular restaurant. While the summer tourism season creates opportunities for long hours and increased income, Amanda knows that she needs to stretch those earnings through the long periods when available work becomes far less predictable.
This past winter, reduced hours, colder temperatures, and rising living expenses placed significant strain on Amanda’s budget. Like many seasonal workers on the Cape, she found that even careful planning and regular use of the LCOC food pantry was not enough to keep pace with housing costs and necessities.
With the help of LCOC’s rental assistance program, Amanda was able to catch up on rent and feel some relief from the financial stressors. “I work as hard as I can year-round, but the off-season can be incredibly difficult,” Amanda shared. “The assistance from Lower Cape Outreach gave me breathing room when I truly needed it. I’m so grateful to know there are people in our community who care and want to help.”
The support helped prevent a temporary hardship from becoming a housing crisis and allowed Amanda to focus on returning to work and preparing for another busy summer season.
If you or someone you know is in need of assistance, LCOC may be able to help. Contact us at 508-240-0694 or email lcoc@lcoutreach.org.
In 2024, LCOC was able to provide $842,589 in Financial Assistance to nearly 1,000 households on the Lower and Outer Cape.
Donor support makes this all possible while strengthening the lives of so many.
