By Stephen Andrews
Just before Christmas, our conference received a case that weighed heavily on our hearts. A mother of five was facing eviction after falling behind on her rent. With the holidays approaching, the fear of losing her home was overwhelming.
When we visited her, we learned that her situation resulted from a series of unexpected hardships. She had generously loaned her car to a friend in need. Unfortunately, her friend was involved in an accident; the car was totaled, and the insurance company refused to pay to have it repaired. Without transportation, the mother immediately lost her second job. That job enabled her to afford rent in Raleigh.
She had moved to Raleigh from Goldsboro, seeking safety and stability after experiencing profound loss. One of her children had been killed by gun violence, and she was desperate to find a safer place for her remaining family. To support her household, she worked two jobs, doing everything she could to keep her children sheltered and secure.
Despite these challenges, she did not give up. She quickly found another job within walking distance of her home. Still, the immediate threat of eviction remained.
Through the generosity of the St. Vincent de Paul Society, and with assistance from another family member, her past-due rent was paid, preventing eviction and allowing her family to remain in their home. Most importantly, this assistance gave her the breathing room she needed to move forward.
Today, she is back on her feet and able to manage her expenses going forward. This case is a powerful reminder that many of our neighbors live just one crisis away from homelessness. Compassion and support can make all the difference.
At St. Vincent de Paul, we are grateful to walk with our neighbors during their most difficult moments, offering not just financial help, but hope, dignity, and the reassurance that they are not alone.