Pathway of Hope helps Texas family find stability and hope for future

The family was homeless: Brian was living in a car with the three boys while Hannah was staying elsewhere. There just wasn't space for all of them to be together. Dealing with ongoing health issues, Brian was unable to work consistently, so Hannah had to be available to look after him and the children. They were without hope and couldn't see a way out of their situation.

The Salvation Army in Lewisville, Texas, received a referral for the family from Grace Like Rain, another ministry in the Dallas area. Both organizations have been involved with the family since then.

"The Salvation Army was able to help right away," Hannah said.

Christy Daniel, their Salvation Army case manager, developed a personalized action plan and meets with them regularly. "They were an ideal fit for Pathway of Hope, a nationwide Salvation Army initiative that assists families, ultimately helping them to be self-sufficient," Daniel said.

She helped Brian apply for disability benefits and continues to meet with the family twice each month. "Hannah is working as a bus driver for the school district, securing a steady income and health benefits for the first time. Once they receive disability payments, the family will reach a new level of financial security and be able to plan for the future," Daniel said.

Additionally, Grace Like Rain continues to provide financial support and a coach, who is like an emotional cheerleader, and meets with the family regularly.

It's been really helpful to have people to talk about what is going on in life. I'm not used to that kind of support network," Hannah said. "I feel like there is finally a light at the end of the tunnel and I'm learning to deal with stress and pressure in a completely new way.

"We're living paycheck to paycheck, but that's OK. I'm hoping we will soon have a little money left in our account at the end of each month," she said. "I want to eventually take the kids on vacation and do stuff other people do. For now, we're paying the bills and have a roof over our heads.

Hannah said she is grateful for The Salvation Army's Pathway of Hope. "They helped pick us up and kept us working toward our goals," she said. "I want to say ‘thank you' to The Salvation Army and Grace Like Rain for being there for us."