In early 2006, Inez* came to North Valley Caring Services’ breakfast program seeking food for herself and her 1 and 2-year-old children. Staff discovered that a warm meal was only the beginning of the assistance Inez and her family needed. Living in her car with her two children, Inez not only needed food, but shelter, clothing, and support.
Today Inez is an active member of North Valley Caring Services’ ESL, parenting, and child development classes, and is employed. While she is learning to speak English, she is comfortable knowing that her two children are in the same building being well-cared for by NVCS’ Child Development Center. After working with NVCS’ Outreach Coordinator to obtain Section 8 housing, Inez and her children now have a home. And last Christmas, the family had their entire apartment furnished after NVCS helped arrange for them to be “adopted” by Northridge’s United Methodist Church.
Just 18 months ago, the future looked bleak and overwhelming to Inez. But today, she has hope. North Valley Caring Services has helped Inez and her children become stabilized enough that Inez is able to better care for herself and her children. Truly a “success story,” NVCS is so glad to be part of this family’s journey.
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When Ron* first came to the Breakfast Program he was about 35 years old. A quiet, unkempt man, Ron was struggling to kick his drug habit. Although he managed to never get arrested, Ron always seemed skittish and anxious, constantly looking around. Ron always came for breakfast, and, without fail, was one of the first in line for the monthly haircuts. He enjoyed talking with and receiving encouragement from the volunteers. Ron liked to say that he would come to the Breakfast Program to get his stomach and his spirit filled at the same time. After months of struggling, Ron entered a rehab program. He now visits NVCS and its volunteers to share how happy he is with his drug-free life, which includes living in a group home where he proudly makes his own meals. When Ron comes to NVCS he sweeps the walk and parking lot, but does not eat. He says the meals are for those who need it, as he once did. But he does miss the free haircut, he says!
*Names changed to protect privacy.
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