Brad and Betty Smith entered the Western Dairyland homeless haven in 2009, after being evicted by relatives and living with another aunt for a short period of time. In the midst of this, they had a new baby boy and had to stay in their van for two weeks with their other toddles boys, who are 1 and 2 years old. Brad had been unemployed for eight months and was receiving his last unemployment check. They were receiving food stamps, WIC and Badger care.
The family started working with Carrie Bloom, Western Dairyland’s Employment specialist in job preparation and job search. She assisted them with applications, job leads and interview clothing. Brad and Betty also worked with Suzanne Marsolek, Western Dairyland’s Homeless Case Manager, regarding housing counseling and goal planning. They found a rental with a month, and Workforce Connections assisted in paying the security deposit through their emergency housing grant. Western Dairyland used HPP (Homeless Prevention Program) grant funds to help with their first month’s rent. The Smith’s also had a very high electric bill- the HPP grant paid 50% and a payment plan was created to pay off the remaining 50% in a specified timeframe.
Within two and a half months of Western Dairyland’s assistance, Brad found a full-time job and was also working overtime hours. Health insurance benefits stated 90 days after he started. Betty is interested in getting her CAN (Certified Nursing Assistant) certificate and has taken steps to pursue this opportunity. She is now able to start looking for a part-time job and quality daycare for the boys. The oldest child was recently enrolled in Head Start and Early Childhood, due to some speech delays.
The Smith’s started budget counseling before they moved into their new home and continued for five months. They were able to purchase and repair a second vehicle, with Western Dairyland’s SHP (Supportive Housing Program) paying the registration fees.
To date, Brad and Betty are able to pay their monthly bills and are self- sufficient.