*HOPE uses AI generated images to represent the clients in these cases while maintaining their privacy.
As 2024 begins, we reflect on the economic challenges our community faced last year. The United States experienced a substantial increase in the cost of living in 2023, with inflation peaking at 6.4%. This rise in expenses, especially for essentials like housing and healthcare, mirrored the difficulties encountered by individuals like Manuel, whom HOPE Helps had the privilege to assist.
Manuel, a committed school bus driver, sought assistance from HOPE Helps during a significant personal crisis. Hospitalized for a medical condition, he lost income and depleted his savings. HOPE Helps provided Manuel with vital financial counseling, budgeting assistance, and support towards his mortgage payments. As he recuperates at home and prepares to return to work, Manuel expressed his deep appreciation, noting, “Through HOPE, I discovered there’s really an agency that listens, understands, and extends a helping hand.” He was particularly relieved to catch up on his utility and other pertinent bills, thanks to the support that the community provided.
