MOM SAYS AMEN FOR HELP FROM CHURCH GROUP

0 Comments | Gazette, The (Colorado Springs), Dec 21, 2007 | by KIM NGUYEN

Stephanie and her son moved from Nashville, Tenn., to Colorado Springs in 2005 to start a new life with her fiance, a Fort Carson soldier who had just returned from Iraq.

Shortly after the move, though, Stephanie's fiance of three years abruptly left her, leaving the unemployed mom to fend for herself.

"Everything was in his name, including the apartment," she said. "I couldn't get a job. I couldn't find a baby sitter."

So Stephanie turned to Northern Churches Care, one of 14 area nonprofit agencies receiving grants from The Gazette-El Pomar Empty Stocking Fund.

Northern Churches Care works alongside area churches to provide emergency and financial assistance to families in need. Last year, the group served roughly 7,218 households, or 21,654 adults and children. It also assists with rent, utilities, transportation, counseling, legal advice and health care.

Stephanie said she credits the organization for getting her back on her feet. Only her first name is being used in this article to protect her privacy.

With Northern Churches Care's help, Stephanie was able to find employment, go to school and care for her 8-year-old son at the same time. This summer, she finished her schooling, becoming a licensed cosmetologist.

"They gave me gas vouchers, otherwise I wouldn't have been able to find a job. They gave me counseling and help when I thought I was going to lose my mind," Stephanie said. "And they kind of got me over a hump with help with my utility bill so I could start saving money."

DETAILS

To make a tax-deductible contribution to The Gazette-El Pomar Foundation Empty Stocking Fund, send a check payable to Empty Stocking Fund to P.O. Box 400, Colorado Springs, CO 80901. Donate online at gazette.com and click on the Empty Stocking Fund link. Credit card or stock donations can also be made by phone, 476-1673. Donations will be accepted until Jan. 18.