Selena*

In the summer of 2024, Selena— a single mother of two— found herself facing a series of unexpected challenges. After she was injured at her job with the United States Postal Service, she was unable to work, and relied on worker’s compensation to make ends meet. But when a rescheduled doctor’s appointment caused a delay in her paperwork, her benefit check for July didn’t arrive on time, leaving her unable to pay her mortgage.

In August, Selena finally received her delayed payment. But just as she began to regain her footing, she was met with devastating news: her brother’s health took a serious turn, and he passed away just a week later. Selena took on the sole responsibility of paying for his funeral and burial costs— using everything she had to lay him to rest.

As the financial strain continued to mount, she found herself falling behind on her mortgage, unsure how she would manage to keep her home.

With steady worker’s compensation benefits now arriving every month, Selena focused on finding a way forward. She connected with Housing Forward’s Homeless Prevention Program, and was provided one-time Emergency Financial Assistance that helped cover her past-due mortgage and avoid foreclosure.

Today, Selena is focused on healing, spending time with her children, and getting back on her feet so that she can return to work.

*At the request of the client, we have changed her name and used a stock photo.