From Eviction to Promotion – Theresa’s Journey
Theresa and her three children first had contact with DuPagePads when they were evicted from their apartment.
“It is a scary feeling, not knowing what to tell your kids when they ask ‘Where are we going?’” Theresa shares.
Although Theresa had a full-time career, taking care of her two teens and an eight-year-old, while searching for an apartment, was challenging. Unfortunately, Theresa’s past credit history and prior evictions were financial stumbling blocks to finding another home and she had little success working with a landlord.
“It was frustrating to keep hearing ‘no,’ during my apartment search. I didn’t know where to turn for help-until I started working with DuPagePads,” Theresa shares.
With the help of Theresa’s Family Outreach case manager, Theresa was given assistance, looking for apartment leads along with rental resources including the Housing Now program. This new program provides funds for security deposits and initial rent for people with a steady income.
Through all of her family’s uncertainty and stress, Theresa continued working hard. A model employee with an outstanding this work ethic, Theresa was rewarded with a sizable raise and promotion.
“I’ll never forget the moment of pure joy-hearing not only that I was appreciated by my employer – but knowing that this raise, along with support from DuPagePads, would help my family move to a home. I just remember thinking ‘finally.’ It was a dream come true.” Theresa says.
Consequently, DupagePads was able to assist Theresa in finding a landlord that would work with her regardless of her prior evictions and poor credit. Theresa and her family recently moved into a new apartment. Working closely with her case manager, Theresa is planning for a brighter future.
“DuPagePads continues to work with me on a budget, and I now know how to stay focused so that we will never end up facing eviction again. I don’t know where we would be without DuPagePads, we are so grateful,” Theresa smiles.
