Our Stories of Hope

Robbie, needing to feed his children……

Robbie (name changed), a middle-aged father of five came into the CCH office in need of food.  Robbie found himself living in a tent with his children in the primitive area of Van Buren State Park with no food for his children.  He had been gainfully employed for several years when he was alerted by the local police that his wife had been arrested for selling and using drugs out of their home.  Things just spiraled out of control at that time – the money he thought had been used for their rent, groceries and monthly living expenses had been used for drugs by his wife.  He was now faced with caring for the children, had lost his longtime employment due to these circumstances and consequently evicted from their home. CCH was able to refer him to another agency to secure adequate housing as well as provide shoes through Project Happy Feet and backpacks through Stuff the Bus.  He was also given a substantial food voucher for him and his family.

Sara, fleeing from a domestic violence situation…….

Sara (name changed), a young mother, entered the CCH office carrying her infant daughter. The day was hot, but Sara wore a long-sleeved jacket to cover her bruises. She had to flee her dangerous situation. All she could grab as she was leaving was her infant daughter. She was staying at the local domestic violence shelter and needed to get the baby to a doctor’s appointment. The tiny daughter had a spot on her head and she needed to be seen immediately  by a specialist. Debbie (CCH Office Manager) called the local cab companies, but because the infant was in a car seat they could not transport her to the appointment. One of our volunteers overheard the situation and offered to take her to the appointment. Sara was very grateful for the help and the ride. CCH is not in the transporting business, but our loving and kind volunteers go out of their way to help. by a specialist. Debbie (CCH Office Manager) called the local cab companies, but because the infant was in a car seat they could not transport her to the appointment. One of our volunteers overheard the situation and offered to take her to the appointment. Sara was very grateful for the help and the ride.

CCH is not in the transporting business, but our loving and kind volunteers go out of their way to help.by a specialist. CCH Office Manager called the local cab companies, but because the infant was in a car seat, they could not transport her to the appointment. One of our volunteers overheard the situation and offered to take her to the appointment. Sara was very grateful for the help and the ride. CCH is not in the transporting business, but our loving and kind volunteers go out of their way to help.

Kayla’s Story……

Kayla stood at the entrance of CCH, her newborn daughter cradled in her arms. The baby, just a week old, slept peacefully, unaware of the weight her mother carried. With a deep breath, Kayla stepped inside, seeking assistance with her overdue AEP electric bill.

Kayla explained her situation, her voice steady but edged with exhaustion. She was currently on maternity leave, which meant no income for the time being. The memory of last fall loomed large over her; she had lost her 8-year-old son to a devastating lung disease. The grief was still raw, and the financial strain that followed had made it difficult to catch up with bills.

Tears welled up as she recounted her struggles.  Staff listened with empathy, and replied “Let’s see what we can do about your electric bill and any other support you might need.” Gratitude filled Kayla’s heart as she felt a glimmer of relief. The kindness and understanding she encountered at CCH reminded her that she wasn’t alone.

Sometimes, the struggles of those we serve are greater than most could imagine. Yet, in places like CCH, they find not just assistance, but a community that cares.