From Homeless to Housed: Patricia's Story

One woman's story of hardship, perseverance, triumph, and hope.

Patricia had been homeless for over three years. She was legally disabled which only added to the difficult and harsh reality that came with living on the streets. Many nights she found herself sleeping behind buildings which more often than not led to her going to jail. Soon enough Patricia was dealing with addictions that only began as a way to cope with the pain and extremities that came with being homeless. She often wondered how her life had come to this and wondered if she would ever have a fresh chance to start again, to live joyously once more.

Recently, Patricia's prayers and dreams were heard and answered. A team of case workers were assigned to help Patricia start fresh. Case workers from Charleston Dorchester Department of Mental Health, Charleston County, One 80 Place, and Origin SC found out that they were all assigned to help house a disabled chronically homeless woman, and transition her into her very own apartment. It was determined that Origin SC's Lease on Life Program will help pay the rent and help her to live as comfortably as possible. 

A couple of weeks ago, Patricia signed the lease and got the keys to her apartment. Her caseworker at Origin recounted the very happy and joyful experience. She said, "Patricia made friends with two neighbors on the way to her apartment with one being a kind gentleman who carried her laundry basket full of goodies for her, and the other a woman who invited her for dinner. The property manager gave her the keys so when we all got to her door, Patricia opened the door herself. She was so excited she did a little dance." Her caseworker said, "I do not think I could find the words to accurately describe how happy Patricia seemed. She cried over the carpet and ceiling fan in the bedroom and kept asking if this was really hers. She enjoyed looking at her private bathroom and was so focused on learning how to use the electric thermostat (She even asked to make sure she could adjust it). We left together so she could walk to a food drive not far away and on the way out she couldn’t help but give out hugs and kisses." 

Now that Patricia has a roof over her head, she has made goals of going to mental health and seeking treatment for addictions that she used to cope with being homeless. She also is hopeful that she can reconnect with her daughter soon. 

To learn more about the Lease on Life Program or the Homeless Prevention Program at Origin SC and the ways in which they assist individuals to work towards self-sufficiency & financial stability, please click the link below. 

Origin's Housing Stability Program:  https://originsc.org/homeless-prevention/

Or if you would like to donate to this program please visit: https://originsc.networkforgood.com/projects/112209-housing-financial-stability-donations

All names have been changed to respect privacy.

Written by Lindsey Jenkins,

Marketing & Outreach Manager at Origin SC

Buying a Home in 2022? Consider Doing These Things Now

 What are experts saying about the 2022 housing market? according to an article published by Nerd Wallet we can expect very similar conditions for 2022. The prices of homes may rise a little, sellers will still have the upper hand, and finding an affordable home may be difficult. But don't give up hope just yet. There are specific things you can begin doing right now that you will definitely thank yourself for later when purchasing the home of your dreams.  

1. Improve your credit score - a good credit score can save buyers hundreds of dollars a month on their mortgage. Origin has a licensed credit counseling program that can help you working towards this now.  Click here to learn more.

2. Revamp your budget to save more - The 2021 housing market was hot. Prices were high, the amount of homes available were low, and many buyers lost out on multiple homes before having their offer accepted. We can expect very similar conditions and to get ahead of your competitors, you will need to save save save. Origin also offers financial coaching to help you take inventory of all of your finances and help you build a budget that will help you save. To learn more click here.

source: https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/mortgages/the-property-line-mortgage-trends-for-2022 

Written by:

Lindsey Jenkins

Marketing & Outreach Manager Origin SC

Meet the Origin Staff: Josette Lee Pearson & Hailey Lapa

 Meet Our Staff

The services we provide at Origin would not be possible without the wonderful people behind the scenes making everything happen. We feel truly grateful to work with such an amazing team and wanted to introduce staff members,

Josette Lee Pearson & Hailey Lapa.

                 Josette Lee Pearson

Title: Homeless Prevention Intake Case Manager

Housing Stability Program

 

Hometown: Merced, California

 

Years Working for Origin: Just celebrated 1 year on September 14, 2021

 

Favorite Hobby: DIY Furniture Makeovers, Interior Decorating, Crafting, Jewelry Making, Painting, Hand-writing letters and cards, invitations.

 

What drew you to Origin SC originally? Core Values and Mission represented by the organization and the invaluable services that it provides to the community is what initially drew me to Origin.

 

And how has the organization changed since? I joined the staff 6 months into the Pandemic. The organization has adapted well to having the office closed to in-person visits and being successful in allowing staff to work from home and has created new and innovative ways to provide seamless quality services to our clients.

 

What has surprised you the most about working at Origin SC? How nice and helpful everyone is and their willingness to help you succeed.

 

How has Origin SC helped you in your career development?

Introduced me to another area of community service – Homeless Prevention

 

What is one thing that you are most proud of? My family and especially my two children and how well they are doing, despite the pandemic and the daily challenges that they still face at middle school and at college. It has been a real challenge for them to bounce back from social isolation and anxiety, and fear caused by the pandemic, but they are doing better. I hope that everyone is.

Hailey Lapa

Title:

Licensed Social Worker/ Case Manager & Court Advocate

Family Violence Intervention Program

 

Hometown: Warren, NJ.

 

Years Working for Origin: 

I have been a full time employee at Origin SC for over 2 years.

 

Favorite Hobby: Going to the beach!

 

What drew you to Origin SC originally?

I was drawn to Origin SC when I was in the process of getting my Masters degree. I applied to be an intern, and was hired to work in the Family Violence Intervention Program. 

 

And how has the organization changed since?

This organization has grown tremendously over the last 2 years.  We are now reaching more clients than ever across the state of South Carolina. 

 

What has surprised you the most about working at Origin SC?

I was surprised the most by how welcoming the staff at Origin SC are. I always feel included, and my hard work is consistently recognized. 

 

What is an experience that has really shaped who you are?

I am constantly growing and evolving as a social worker each day I work with victims of violence. Their testimonies, their strength and courage, their positive attitudes, their resilience shapes me every day to be the best service provider possible.

 

How has Origin SC helped you in your career development?

Origin SC has greatly contributed to my growth and success as a social worker. As an employee at Origin SC, I feel like the sky is the limit for me. I am reminded daily that my coworkers and supervisors will support me in every endeavor I embark on. 

 

What is one thing that you are most proud of?

I am most proud of all the victims of intimate partner violence in South Carolina and across the nation who have transformed into survivors.

Debt Free In Five Years Or Less: How Did They Do It?

 Debt Management Program Client Success Stories

Have you imagined how different your life could be without the burden of debt affecting your mental, emotional, & physical well being? Origin’s Debt Management Program may be the answer you have been looking for. To find out more information on the program, click here. 

Below are real testimonials from clients that recently graduated Origin’s Debt Management Program. They speak about their experience in the program and how their life has changed because of it. All names have been changed to respect their privacy.

Ben's Story

Ben told us that he first contacted Origin because he was in so much debt he was considering filing for Bankruptcy as a solution to fix his financial situation. “I needed to do something about my debt problem. I myself was up against a wall and on the verge of bankruptcy until I decided to do a little more research into debt repayment programs that don't damage your credit like bankruptcy does.” Working with Origin, Ben learned that “there is an alternative to bankruptcy that can save a lot of money and embarrassment.”

“I've learned a lot about managing debt and how it is possible to go debt free. It isn't always easy, but if you stay determined and stick to a plan you know will work, it will reward you beyond imagination.”

 He says managing his financial situation and debt has changed his life for the better. "I've gained a lot of hope in knowing that I can crawl out from under the mountain of debt that I amassed over several years. This has opened up opportunities I would have not otherwise had and given me a new lease on life and a new sense of freedom, not only financially, but with my career.”

His direct advice to anyone looking for help with managing their debt is, “I would highly recommend that they consider a debt management program and talk to a debt counselor who can showcase the various options for repayment. Origin SC provides an excellent service at a fair price.  Working with my counselor was great. She was very responsive and answered all of my questions quickly and effectively. I would highly recommend her as a counselor to others.”

Sally's Story

 “I was having financial hardship and needed to revamp my household budgeting.” This is the reason that Sally first reached out to Origin for help.

 She says that while she was in the program something valuable that she learned was how to “monitor my household budgeting verses all income.” Once Sally began doing this she said that she started to “notice positive changes immediately.”

“The counselors were very informative, courteous and friendly. My life has changed for the better due to being able handle unexpected expenses.” She says the program has helped her to “save a good amount of money on expenses and set a small savings fund for small emergencies.” 

Her advice for anyone struggling with debt is to seek professional guidance and not just to handle it on your own.

www.originsc.org

Written by Lindsey Jenkins

Achieving the Homeownership Dream Is Possible: Recent Homebuyer Client Success Story

Congratulations to recent homeowner Stephanie Wright! Stephanie stayed committed & worked hard, graduated from the Credit Counseling and Homeownership Program at Origin SC, and successfully purchased her home. Read her story below.

Stephanie says she originally contacted Origin SC to gain control of her finances and put herself on a budget only one year prior to actually purchasing her home. She feels that the most valuable thing she learned was how to budget effectively because it allowed her to accomplish paying off her credit cards while working through the program. Stephanie also received a $1,000 grant from Origin SC to use as a down payment & closing cost assistance towards purchasing her home. She encourages anyone thinking about beginning the Credit Counseling Program and or Homeownership Program at Origin, to participate to gain a better understanding of where "you are headed financially."

“The session that I had with Tavia Watson, (Licensed Credit Counselor & Homeownership Coach at Origin SC) dealing with the credit was amazing.  She pulled my credit report, ran all three credit bureaus, and we came up with an action plan.  I worked that plan for approximately 1 year.  Even though I had owned a home before, I went through the First Time Homeowners Class.  You can always learn something new.  They go over everything from choosing a realtor, knowing the difference between your interest rate and your Annual Percentage Rate (APR).  It was definitely an eye opener!  I would suggest anyone interested in purchasing a home take the class.” - Stephanie Wright

To learn more about the Homeownership Program visit https://originsc.org/homeownership/.

To learn more about the Credit Counseling & Financial Education Program visit https://originsc.org/financial-coaching/.

To learn more about our Lending Program visit https://originsc.org/lending/.

Stephanie Wright in front of her new home

Written by: Lindsey Jenkins, 

Marketing & Outreach Manager at Origin SC

Emergency Savings - Disaster Related Expenses

The more financially prepared we are means the more resilient we are when it comes to unexpected disaster-related expenses. Because let’s be honest, what disaster is ever expected? Having an emergency savings fund means you actually have to save for emergencies and disaster-related expenses. This is an extremely important topic that many of us forget about until we are put into an emergency situation. The 2021 Atlantic hurricane season officially starts June 1^stand extends all the way to  November 30^th.According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, (https://www.noaa.gov/news-release/noaa-predicts-another-active-atlantic-hurricane-season) “For 2021, a likely range of 13 to 20 named storms (winds of 39 mph or higher), of which 6 to 10 could become hurricanes (winds of 74 mph or higher), including 3 to 5 major hurricanes (category 3, 4 or 5; with winds of 111 mph or higher) is expected. NOAA provides these ranges with a 70% confidence. “   Now is the time for communities along the coast to be preparing and we want to help prepare you for this hurricane season. Creating a budget for disaster-related expenses that includes your income and fixed expenses is a good way to prepare. FEMA suggests taking it a step further and, “estimate costs of insurance deductibles, possible mandatory evacuations and essentials like food, clothing, shelter, gas and emergency medical assistance.” Now you have a good idea how much money you will need and you can create a savings plan to get you there. 

 

NOAA’s Climate Prediction Centeris predicting another above-normal Atlantic hurricane season. Forecasters predict a 60% chance of an above-normal season, a 30% chance of a near-normal season, and a 10% chance of a below-normal season. However, experts do not anticipate the historic level of storm activity seen in 2020 (noaa.gov). Although this season is predicted to be lower than previous years it still should become a priority when budgeting your finances. Below is a chart to get you started:

Some general tips include: 

·       Create a disaster budget that includes the estimated cost of expenses such as those mentioned above. This gives you a good idea of how much you will need to save each month to be prepared by the time Hurricane season enters the peak period (see below). This also motivates you to save and reach a goal which is a good habit to form. TIP: Though Hurricane season begins in June,  historically speaking 96 percent of category 3, 4, and 5 hurricanes take place in the “peak period” of August through mid-October in the Carolinas.

·       Open a savings account for emergencies and start adding little by little, it will add up over time. Determine how long it will take you to reach your disaster budget goal if you consistently save x amount each month. Never save more than your fixed expenses/ household budget will allow.  Not sure how much you can afford, our licensed financial education counselors can help with this. (https://originsc.org/financial-education-coaching/)

·     Withdrawal cash for necessities (the storm may put electronic systems down)

·     Put important documents in a safe place (waterproof bags)

Written by Allie Ryan & Lindsey Jenkins

Sources:

1.    https://www.fema.gov/press-release/20210318/fact-sheet-now-time-prepare-your-finances-hurricane-season

2.    https://www.noaa.gov/news-release/noaa-predicts-another-active-atlantic-hurricane-season

Meet The Staff: Carmen Britton

MEET THE STAFF: Carmen Britton

Title: Intake Coordinator

Hometown: Goose Creek

Years Working for Origin: Almost a month!

Favorite Hobby: Writing, reading, drawing, coloring, pool time working on my tan!

1. What drew you to Origin SC originally? Non-profit, helping people, counseling aspect.

2. What has surprised you the most about working at Origin SC? The numerous services offered!

3. What is an experience that has really shaped who you are? Helping my sister raise her three kids.

4. How has Origin SC helped you in your career development? To be determined 😊

5. What is one thing that you are most proud of? My self-sufficiency, my independence, and my nieces and nephew.

Meet the Staff: Laura Stephens

MEET THE STAFF: Laura Stephens

Title: FMS Accountant / DMP Manager

Hometown: Munich, Germany

Years Working for Origin: Going on 2 years

Favorite Hobby: Not much time these days for hobbies…but I love spending time with my family and my new puppy

1. What drew you to Origin SC originally? And how has the organization changed since?

I was always interested in the nonprofit field, because I love helping people. When I saw the job posting for DMP Counselor, I thought this would be a perfect fit for me. I get to work in the financial field, and at the same time I get to help people.

I am excited to be part of many big changes at Origin. We moved to our new office and brought on a lot of amazing new team members. I can’t wait to see what the next years will bring!

2. What has surprised you the most about working at Origin SC?

I think what surprised me most is to see how a small team like ours can make such a big impact in the community and help so many different people.

3. What is an experience that has really shaped who you are?

I think leaving my home country Germany to move to the US has a lot to do with who I am today. To leave my family and friends behind to start a brand-new life is scary and exciting. We had to start all over and work hard for everything we have today.

4. How has Origin SC helped you in your career development?

My managers really care about my career goals and where I see myself in the next 2-5 years. I love that I have to opportunity to grow within the organization and implement my ideas.

5. What is one thing that you are most proud of?

I am proud of my family’s accomplishments over the past years. We came to South Carolina literally empty-handed and were able to build a beautiful life for our family.

Why Choose Origin SC’s Homeownership Program?

 

Gaining Homeownership with Origin SC!

 

When & Why You Should Purchase Your First Home With Origin SC!

https://youtu.be/N8W64RM0nlw 

Financial Stress & Mental Health

 A number of studies have demonstrated a cyclical link between financial worries and mental health problems such as depression, anxiety, and substance abuse. Financial problems adversely impact your mental health. The stress of debt or other financial issues can leave you feeling depressed or anxious. But, it doesn’t have to be that way. Some tips to help cope with financial stress include: 

·     Declutter your budget – Take the time to schedule, organize, and declutter all the money coming in and out of your bank account. When you have more control, stress tends to be relieved. See what you can cut back on and focus on the necessities. We offer a FREE Credit Improvement & Making Ends Meet combo class where you learn everything you need to know about credit improvement & basic budgeting techniques. This workshop will provide you with the basic skills that are necessary to begin building a financial road map to a better future. You can find more information and sign up for FREE on our website here: https://originsc.org/classes/credit-improvement-workshop/

·     Understand the debt cycle – Once you know how to get out of debt, it is easier to build a healthy financial future moving forward. We have a debt management program where we develop consolidated payment programs that include lower interest rates and monthly payments which are made directly to our office and distributed appropriately to the creditors on the behalf of the client (you).

• Don't forget general stress management- As you work on improving your financial situation, you can reduce stress by practicing stress-reducing techniques and making other changes to create a low-stress lifestyle. Find activities or hobbies that you enjoy, put yourself and your mental health first!

At Origin SC we are always here to help you on the path to financial freedom. https://originsc.org

 

 

Iheart Radio Interview

Marketing & Community Outreach Manager, Lindsey Jenkins recently spoke with Michael Blaze, host of the Home 360 radio show on News Radio 94.3WSC. The show covers all things about your home, home improvement, and real estate. Click the link below to listen to Lindsey share all things Origin SC and our services we provide as well as our homeownership program.

https://www.iheart.com/podcast/394-your-home-360-with-michael-79807432/

Stories of Hope!

It has now been just a little over a year since the Corona-Virus was declared as a global health emergency. In February, we asked you all to share your greatest transformation/adaptation in the last year along with any positive stories & messages of hope, faith, or aspiration that we could share with our community. Thank you everyone for sharing! Now it is time for us to share these messages and stories with you. We are all in this together and we rise by lifting one another.

How have you stayed busy (safely) during the last year of the pandemic?

·     “Tennis, hiking, and reading. Ok - some mindless TV as well.”

·     “I've kept busy by writing and phone calls sharing an encouraging message of hope…” 

·     “Be a light to others, be encouraging and helpful. Doing good things and enjoying the gift of life.”

·     “I have stayed busy with my kids keeping me busy mostly. I have been dealing with many health issues including stage 3 kidney failure but i continue to hold my head up and fight until I can get a transplant from the list or find a living donor.”

 

Did you gain any new hobbies during the last year of the pandemic? (If yes, then what?)

·     “Hiking has become a new hobby and love during the COVID time. We started hiking on the Palmetto Trail here in Charleston along the coast and have hiked into a new area of the state. Additionally, the "dream" of hiking the Appalachian Trail started in August with one weekend a month and I am so looking forward to the weather changing and the next section in late March.”

·     “I have learned more and have tried new ways of cooking things as I want to expand my culinary horizon.”

 

Did you learn something new or try something new during the last year of the pandemic? (If yes, then what?)

·     “I have always loved the outdoors and sports but having the time and opportunity to hike has enriched my life and given me a new perspective for nature. Keeping safe and distancing from my more regular hobbies allowed me the chance to go for a walk in the woods. This has made me sane, happy, healthier, and more optimistic about life.”

 

We want to hear what was your greatest adaptation/transformation/ adjustment/modification during the pandemic:

·     “Work has been a large adaptation as we as recreation professionals have learned how to navigate new protocols in bringing people together but in a safe way. I have enjoyed my job more in the last 12 months than I have in a long time just trying to become more essential to the people we serve.”

·     “Having looked up the information that was given me, I've been uplifted and encouraged to look forward to better times ahead with confidence all the Bible says will come to be.”

·     “Taking care of myself quickly became a priority as much as I take care of others. I had to learn how to put myself first and that that was ok.”

·     “My biggest change would have to be the schooling from home as I had to go back and relearn some things myself. It is definitely not the same as the way I learned it years ago."

 

Do you have a positive story to come out of the last year of the pandemic? (If so, please share below)

·     “Everything has been positive but I have become closer to family and gained friends from this pandemic as we are all in this together. Life is too short to let many things get us down.”