Donors Change the Odds for Hired Families

One year ago…

Hired launched the Abundance Fund to support the essential needs of our participants. We had already endured eight months of the pandemic, and health experts were anticipating a wave of increased infections during the winter months. The families we work with at Hired – many who already lived on the brink – were more likely to have lost jobs, experience reduced hours, or continued to work in high-risk areas.

The individual donations to the Abundance Fund made it possible for participants to continue on. Those who received support – often for basic necessities like a cell phone bill, clothes for work, or rent – were so grateful for the compassion of a caring community.

Now a year later…

Many people are back to a life of travel, concerts and dinners at restaurants while continuing to work from the comfort of their own homes. Yet for many Hired participants, the weight of the pandemic has yet to relent. This persistent and cumulative stress is contributing to the significant rise we’re seeing in gun violence, domestic and substance abuse, and mental health challenges across our community. 

For job seekers who lost employment during the pandemic, the plethora of job openings now available across our community aren’t necessarily the kind that will bring stability. Low pay, unpredictable schedules, and a lack of benefits are not a feasible option for working families and single parents.

For parents who have managed to maintain or secure an hourly wage job, they risk significant income loss anytime their children has a sore throat, cough or fever and must follow school quarantine protocols.  

For families living on the edge, a day or a week without a paycheck can lead to some tough decisions. Many parents must choose between buying the clothes they need for work and buying their child winter coats and mittens; between paying their cell phone bill and paying the electric bill to keep the heat on. Many parents fear that they will lose their housing.

 You can change the odds for families in our community. Every dollar contributed to the Abundance Fund will provide families with life’s essentials, helping them make rent and utility payments, purchase required clothing for work, providing warm winter weather clothing for their children, and more.

 With their families stably housed and basic needs met, Hired can do what we do best – helping our participants prepare for and secure jobs to provide for their families and pursue their purpose.

 Please consider a gift today to support those who have the least. Financial contributions, or items from our Amazon or Target wish lists will bring hope in this challenging season.

THE ABUNDANCE FUND IMPACT

“I’m supporting three children, one who needs extra support with distance learning… having stable housing with help me support my family while focusing on my career goals.”

“I have been working at a healthcare clinic for almost four years and the work attire has always been scrubs. I’m a single mom and money is tight, so I am unable to afford the business casual attire needed for my new job.”

 “My phone data is essential. I use it search for jobs and work with my Hired trainer, and use it to help my children with schoolwork.”