Hope in the Midst of Crisis: Erica's Story

When Erica Fitzpatrick entered the 100 Families Initiative in 2022, her life was marked by uncertainty and exhaustion. Homeless and struggling to meet even her most basic needs, she was living in survival mode—focused on getting through each day with limited resources, inconsistent access to food, and only part-time employment without benefits. Stability felt distant, and the margin for error was almost nonexistent.

Housing was one of Erica’s most urgent needs, and when she secured temporary shelter through The Villas, it offered a brief sense of relief. That stability was short-lived. A gas leak forced the apartments to shut down, and Erica once again found herself without a place to live. The setback was devastating. Beyond the loss of housing, she lacked many of the essentials that make a space livable—beds, kitchen utensils, and reliable access to food. These were not just material needs, but reminders of how fragile her situation remained.

During this cycle of crisis, coordinated support through the 100 Families Initiative and DWS-TANF became a turning point.

Reflecting on her journey, Erica shared, “100 Families and DWS-TANF gave me hope in a time when I felt like I had nothing left.”

Rather than facing compounding challenges alone, Erica was met with consistency, guidance, and follow-through. Through ongoing case management and resource coordination, she was supported step by step—applying for housing, accessing food assistance, and prioritizing the most immediate needs while planning for what came next.

With assistance from DWS-TANF, Erica secured $700 per month in SNAP benefits. That support eased the constant pressure of food insecurity and created breathing room—space to think beyond the next meal and begin focusing on long-term goals. For Erica, it was more than assistance; it was a moment of relief that allowed her to regain a sense of control.

Employment presented another significant hurdle. Though eager to work, Erica’s options were limited to part-time positions without benefits, making it difficult to achieve true stability. Through employment support and job placement services, DWS-TANF connected her with 21st Century Janitorial. In February 2024, she secured employment—an important milestone that represented not only income, but renewed confidence and forward momentum.

Community partners played a critical role in reinforcing that progress. Healing Water provided beds, furniture, and kitchen utensils, helping transform empty space into a place of rest and dignity. The Villas offered temporary housing during a crucial transition, while 21st Century Janitorial opened the door to reentering the workforce. Alongside 100 Families and DWS-TANF, these partners formed a network of support that addressed Erica’s needs as interconnected challenges, not isolated problems.

As immediate crises began to stabilize, Erica focused on building skills that would support lasting independence. Through budgeting support and consistent case management, she learned how to manage limited resources, stretch her food benefits, balance wages, and plan for unexpected changes. These practical skills became quiet but powerful milestones—evidence of growth, resilience, and increasing self-sufficiency.

Program partners noted that her persistence and willingness to engage made her a powerful example of how collaboration and determination can change the trajectory of a family’s life.

Erica’s TEA case began on November 16, 2022, and while her progress has not followed a straight line, each step forward has been meaningful. Recently, she re-entered the 100 Families case management system—an intentional decision that reflects her commitment to continued growth. She remains actively engaged in seeking new resources, strengthening her employment pathway, and building toward long-term stability.

Today, Erica’s story is a reminder of what becomes possible when a community shows up—consistently, compassionately, and collaboratively. Her journey reflects the heart of the 100 Families Initiative: walking alongside families through crisis, restoring stability, and helping individuals move forward with dignity, confidence, and hope.