When Fransis lost her job, she didn’t know how she was going to provide for her children. With rising inflation and a small safety net, she scrambled to apply for FoodShare, but Fransis knew it was a supplement, not a solution. What she really needed was a job. Thankfully, all it took was a helping hand – or rather, a network of helping hands – to help this family regain their footing.
It all started when Fransis told her FoodShare worker how much she wanted to find a job. Actually, we might go back a little bit and say that it all started when her FoodShare worker learned that the FoodShare Employment and Training (FSET) program can help anyone on FoodShare find and keep a good-paying job. Knowing someone who knows about FSET can make all the difference in the world to someone like Francis.
Cautiously hopeful, Fransis hesitated to share her story when we first met. Soon, however, she felt encouraged as our network of support embraced her family. While she worked with FSET on her job search, Fransis also joined Wisconsin Works to help with childcare, and Emergency Assistance helped her with rent and utilities. Meanwhile, our community partners at Rogan’s Shoes and Goodwill ensured that Fransis had professional attire for interviews.
Today, Fransis not only has a family-friendly job – she has two. She prepares meals in the Oshkosh Area School District, and as a bus aid with Kobussen. Fransis can take her children with her to work, solving her childcare dilemma.
Fransis feels more motivated than ever. She’s saving up to fix her vehicle and says she’s grateful to have the support of a team who’s pushing her to be her best.
Congratulations, Fransis! We can’t wait to see what you’ll accomplish next.