In March 2003, Brandi moved to Hillsdale County to make a fresh start. While determined not to make public assistance a way of life, she found it difficult to cope with the challenges of being a single parent, homelessness, lack of transportation and having no telephone.

Through the Hillsdale County FIA, Brandi received FIP, Food Assistance and Medicaid, three critical programs that are essential to helping families when their own resources have been temporarily exhausted. In addition, because Brandi was homeless, she was referred to the Community Action Agency for housing assistance. The agency placed Brandi and her family in Samaritan House, which is transitional housing. They also referred her to a credit counselor to help her prepare for renting her own apartment and she was soon able to purchase telephone service.

The Community Action Agency referred Brandi to Journeys for counseling to improve her coping skills. Brandi also attended Work First’s Job Club program, where she practiced interviewing and learned to develop resumes and cover letters. The Community Action Agency also supplied Dial-A-Ride tickets and funds to purchase interview clothing.

With assistance from the Community Action Agency, Brandi found employment at the Bone and Joint Center of Hillsdale County on March 21, 2003, as a medical receptionist. After working 45 days, Brandi became eligible for a vehicle purchase through the Work First program and is pursuing vehicle purchase through this program.

Brandi’s FIP case closed in April 2003, due to her earnings. Presently, she receives transitional Medicaid and Food Assistance. Although Brandi learned much while preparing for employment and through her current work experience, she would like to continue to upgrade her skills. In the near future, Brandi plans to take medical office courses to increase her proficiency in office procedures.