Nearly a decade ago, Erin was experiencing homelessness and searching for a way to rebuild her life. While staying at a local shelter in 2016, she was introduced to United Way of Frederick County and the many community resources available to help people move toward stability.
Erin embraced every opportunity she could. She participated in budgeting, credit repair, and homebuyer education courses while also earning her Certified Nursing Assistant credential through a workforce training grant. Through determination, hard work, and the support of community partners, she achieved a milestone that once felt impossible - purchasing her own home through the USDA Direct Loan Program in 2021.
Since then, Erin has continued building a life centered on service to others.
Today, she works at L'Arche Frederick Maryland, supporting adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Her role requires her to have reliable transportation so she can transport and accompany the people she serves. When an unexpected vehicle setback left her without a car, Erin suddenly faced the possibility of losing the job she loved.
Determined to keep moving forward, Erin rode her bicycle to work for months while searching for a solution. As the summer heat intensified, each commute became more difficult. Although her employer was patient and supportive, she knew reliable transportation was essential to maintaining her employment and the financial stability she had worked so hard to achieve.
Through United Way of Frederick County's Pathway to Transportation program, Erin was able to purchase a reliable vehicle from Second Chances Garage. Together, the program and partnership helped Erin get back behind the wheel so she could continue building the life she has worked so hard to create.
For Erin, this car represents much more than a way to get from one place to another. It means getting to work each day ready to support her clients. It means visiting family with ease, continuing to volunteer with organizations like the Asian American Center of Frederick and Frederick Rescue Mission, and having the independence to stay connected to the people and causes she cares about.
"Having reliable transportation allows me to continue doing the work I love, stay connected with my family and community, and keep moving forward," Erin shared.
Erin's journey is a powerful reminder that financial stability isn't just about overcoming challenges, but also having the support to keep moving forward when unexpected obstacles arise. From rebuilding her life after homelessness to becoming a homeowner, serving her community, and now securing reliable transportation, Erin's story reflects what's possible when determination is met with opportunity.
Through Pathway to Transportation, United Way of Frederick County is helping neighbors like Erin protect the stability they've worked so hard to achieve, creating stronger futures for themselves, their families, and our community.
