Finding Hope in Self-Sufficiency

Candace had been living at The Upper Room Recovery Community in South Bend for almost two years. In this temporary community home, Candace was able to receive the support she needed to remain sober and continue through drug court. With a job in food services at a local hospital, Candace was on track to creating a life of self-sufficiency. 

However, when she received a call that her two-year-old son had a medical emergency, she knew she had to be there for him. Despite the shelter not allowing children, Candace made the decision to leave and be with her son, knowing that she might not be able to return. It was a tough call to make, but as a mother, she knew it was the right one. 

“I did not know what would happen when I left, but I knew I needed to be with my son at that moment,” Candace recalls. “A year ago, I suddenly found myself homeless with my son to take care of. Luckily, The Upper Room helped make accommodations at a hotel until a spot at another shelter opened up.” 

Candace and her son stayed at the shelter for four months. As soon as she arrived there, she met Latisa, Catholic Charities Homeless Services Case Manager. Latisa aids clients in goal-setting and obtaining the resources necessary to obtain those goals. 

Homeless Services in the East Region

Not only do we serve individuals at the Center for the Homeless in South Bend, but we also provide case management for residents at The Rescue Mission, Charis House, and St. Joseph Missions in Allen County.

As a resident's time at the shelter nears its end, a Catholic Charities case manager assess the needs and barriers of the client to successfully re-enter the community. The case manager then makes a plan to break down barriers that could stand in the client's way of becoming  self-sufficient, such as shelter, clothing, food, hygiene, insurance, and healthcare. 

“I can remember meeting Latisa on my first day at the shelter,” Candace said. “She was welcoming, friendly, and absolutely amazing. She is the one who shared life-changing resources that allowed my son and I to find a home. To think exactly a year ago, how different my life was is what fuels me each day with hope.” 

Because Candace has a son, Latisa encouraged her to apply for the Rapid Rehousing Program through Youth Bureau Services in South Bend. Focused on assisting homeless youth, the program finds affordable, safe, and sanitary housing. 

“We would probably still be living at the shelter if it wasn’t for Latisa,” Candace stated. “I would have never known about the Rapid Rehousing Program if it wasn’t for her help.”  

Despite all these ongoing challenges, Candace remained employed. However, given her situation, transportation was a concern. Fortunately, Catholic Charities stepped in to provide her with bus passes when needed, ensuring that she could continue getting to work. Latisa went above and beyond by providing transportation to a food bank, ensuring Candace and her son had access to basic needs. 

It wasn’t just emergency needs Latisa helped with, but also provided emotional support to this single mother. When trying to figure out her financial future, Latisa helped Candace create a budget and explained the importance of savings. Latisa taught Candace how to stack her checks so she could save more while working two jobs. Candace continues to meet with Latisa weekly to discuss goals. 

“Latisa taught me a lot about having a positive mindset,” said Candace. “During each meeting, we start off by making a gratitude list, so I can see all the positive things happening in my life. That really changed my outlook.” 

Looking at the next year, Candace is already blazing a path on her journey to self-sufficiency. Just certified as a surgical sterilization technician, she is hoping for a future career in the operating room. With a bump in pay, Candace is making plans to become a homeowner. Most importantly, Candace is continuing to commit to her sobriety so she can be the best parent for her son.  

“By the grace of God, I have had human service professionals 100% on my side along the way, and I wouldn’t have been able to get where I am right now without both,” Candace exclaimed.