Share the Season helps single mom of three keep her home after family caught COVID-19

Delores is a single mother of three. As a server in Wichita’s food industry, she works hard to make ends meet. In September Delores and all three of her children caught COVID-19 and it took a month for everyone to recover. Unfortunately, her employer doesn’t provide benefits such as sick pay or family medical leave. Without benefits, she was short a month’s wages.

To make matters worse, when Delores returned to her job, she was informed that a portion of her regularly scheduled hours had been given to other staff members. Realizing she was headed for financial disaster, she began searching for another job. But the damage had already been done. She was behind on rent and had a past due balance on her utility bill. She had a utility payment plan, but with the loss of income she was unable to make the payment. She needed help as soon as possible.

Delores heard about Share the Season and filled out an application online. On her application she explained her situation and noted that assistance could help her from losing utility service and “could prevent me and my children from becoming homeless,” adding that she “could also buy more food.”

Her Salvation Army caseworker went right to work. Through Share the Season funding, the caseworker was able to pay Delores’ past due rent and utility balances. Now Delores doesn’t have to worry: Her utilities are caught up, her children will not be homeless and they will have the food they need.

Share the Season, now in its 22nd year, is a partnership between the Wichita Eagle and The Salvation Army. Since its inception the program has helped over 3,900 families through community contributions. This year The Salvation Army will lead the fundraising effort and manage the financial component of the program. They will also provide case management by meeting with people, reviewing their financial situation and trying to find the help they need. The Eagle shares the stories with the community, both to create awareness for those who can benefit from the program and to generate financial support.

How to get help

To apply for assistance, visit www.sharetheseason.org or come in person to The Salvation Army located at 350 N. Market in downtown Wichita. The application deadline is noon, January 16, 2022. For more information, call (316) 263-2769.

How to give help

Send contributions to The Salvation Army, Share the Season, 350 N. Market, Wichita, KS 67202. To donate online, visit www.sharetheseason.org. If you have any questions about donating, call (316) 425-6156.