A Path Forward:
In Sarasota, countless families struggle every day with poverty, housing insecurity, and limited access to opportunity. These challenges often stack up, making it feel impossible to break the cycle or change direction.
The Salvation Army’s Pathway of Hope program exists to change that.
The Salvation Army’s Pathway of Hope program, launched in 2011, helps families across the country—including right here in Sarasota County—move from crisis to stability. It’s not a one-time fix. It’s a long-term, relationship-based approach that equips families with the tools they need to thrive.
Families enrolled in the program receive one-on-one support from a dedicated case manager. Together, they develop a personalized action plan built around the family’s unique strengths and goals. Whether it’s pursuing further education, finding employment, budgeting, or securing safe housing, each plan is designed to break down barriers and build up resilience.
Pathway of Hope also connects families with community resources such as legal aid, child care, transportation, and job training. With each step forward, goals are updated, and families stay supported every step of the way.
Barbara’s Story: A Turning Point
Barbara and her daughter had lived down the street from The Salvation Army Corps in Venice for a while. One day, in need of help with a utility bill, Barbara walked in looking for temporary assistance, but left with something much more.
“I came in to get help with my electric bill,” she shared. “And that’s when I met Patty.”
Patty is one of the case managers with the Pathway of Hope program. When she heard Barbara’s story, she didn’t just offer short-term relief. She invited her to a long-term solution.
“She told me about the program and said they could help me go back to school. And that’s what I did. I ended up enrolling in classes for real estate,” Barbara said. “Now I’m moving forward. Thank you to The Salvation Army for this program. It changed my life.”
Barbara’s journey is one of hundreds unfolding in Sarasota: stories of resilience, empowerment, and transformation.
Why Pathway of Hope Matters
Breaking the cycle of poverty takes more than temporary assistance. It takes relationships, trust, education, and community. That’s what makes Pathway of Hope different and so effective. Families gain the confidence, skills, and connections to not only meet today’s challenges but to shape a better tomorrow.
But this work isn’t possible without you.
Your support helps power programs like Pathway of Hope and makes success stories like Barbara’s possible.
Want to help more families move from crisis to stability?
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