Home is where the heart is, and for Lola, home is where the business is too. But two years ago, Lola almost lost it all.

Call for help

In November 2006, Lola’s day care was struggling to earn enough money to keep up with her housing payments. Forced to file bankruptcy, Lola contacted Consumer Credit Counseling Services (CCCS) for help. This United Way-funded agency offers financial solutions through education and counseling. They were able to assist Lola through financial consultation and classes. The CCCS also set her up with a plan that would allow her to pay off her debt and keep her home.

“They saw the need. My need,” Lola said. “It was a blessing from God.”

But, unfortunately, that wasn’t the end of Lola’s problems.

Home and health at risk

One day, while managing her day care, Lola felt sharp, unceasing pains in her side. She wasn’t able to sleep and constantly felt sick. A doctor explained that it was cancer—two separate cases of cancer. So, in a span of three months, Lola had surgeries to remove tumors on both her kidney and colon. With all of her time dedicated to surgery and recovery, Lola was unable to operate her business. She was stuck with no income and an adjustable rate that kept climbing. Her problems seemed to keep mounting.

“I wasn’t able to do anything,” Lola said.

Continued Commitment

Once again, the CCCS came to the rescue. They contacted Lola’s mortgage company, other lender and the trustee’s office. They were able to solve the problem and switch her to a fixed rate.

“They handled all of my affairs,” Lola said. “They guided me through the trials and tribulations.”

Thanks to the financial counseling and education, Lola has been current on her payments for six months. In addition, the CCCS has continued to follow up with Lola, keeping her safe and on course.

“Without the United Way and the CCCS, I would have lost my home,” Lola said. “I can’t stop thanking them.”

Article by Ryan Schafer