“I’ve been struggling since I retired,” worries Bonnie, “with the cost of things going up. My property tax went from $75.00 in 2019 to $289.00 now. That is a huge jump, and my mobile home is only worth $10,000.”
On a fixed income at the age of 74, funds seem to dwindle faster each year. Rent increased $100 per month last November, but the check in the mail stays the same. And so, decisions between keeping the lights on, having food, or paying for hearing aids to live alone safely are becoming a way of life.
A plea for a little money to get by from her son and daughter in law sparked a conversation. “My son said there [are] programs that could help you.” Looking for resources together, they found Tina at the Lake Stevens Community Resource Center. “I’ve never lived on the system, and I had no clue that there was help.”
Bonnie learned she qualified for food assistance. This freed up space in her budget for utilities and her hearing aid. Plus, “... a little extra money. I have never had that before… I haven’t been able to just buy a cheeseburger and fries in years and let me tell you, it is a treat!”
Worries weigh a little less, and gratitude comes in waves. “I’m grateful I have food because you helped me get food stamps, I can keep my lights on, and I can hear. I’m sure my son is grateful for you also because I no longer ask him for money.”