At Arab American Family Services, nothing assures us that our job is done more than a success story. Recently, a 28 year old single mother came to AAFS seeking many different services. At that time, her husband abandoned her and her children and left her with no financial support at all. She was in dire need for help. The staff of AAFS assisted her with applying for all public benefits that she and her children qualified for, as well as being added to our annual Food Drive, Eid drive, and Back to School Drive.
Throughout the process of ensuring that the client receives the benefits that are available to her and her children, AAFS was able to provide monetary assistance through Islamic Relief funding, to sustain the family during their difficult time. The funds, which they granted the client, helped the her pay utility bills and rent.
Furthermore, AAFS referred the client to other charities such as Catholic Charities and the Mosque Foundation to further assist with everyday necessities. The client was also connected to local food pantries and rent assistance programs. During this difficult time the client was referred to an attorney to help her receive assistance with obtaining a divorce from her husband and child support for the children.
AAFS also provided counseling for both her and her children. Unfortunately, at some point during her time with AAFS, the client was sexually assaulted by an unknown offender who broke into her home. The clients was immediately assisted with filing a police order and seek medical help along with applying for crime victims compensation, which she was granted.
Two years after walking through AAFS’ doors, the client is now an independent, self-sufficient, full-time working mother. Her children are well taken care of and are attending school. She remains a part of AAFS and continuously seeks assistance for herself and her family. Without the generous funds Islamic Relief granted AAFS, the client would have lost hope and would’ve have fallen through the cracks. We are thankful for their help and all those who support the mission of AAFS.
(708) 599-2237
