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New Program Helps People Facing Difficult Times

As reported by Andrea Fujii at WJZ 13

October 12, 2010

The face of poverty is changing, and charities are seeing some of the greatest need in Baltimore County. As a single mother on disability, Luz Figuero lives on $1,100 a month.

"I'm struggling. It's very difficult," said Figuero.

Behind on her mortgage and bills, the EarnBenefits Outreach Program is helping her to find out which federal and state aid she's eligible for.

"I know I will be saving a lot of money," said Figuero.

Many people are saving money through food stamps, low cost health insurance, energy bill assistance, legal help and much more.

"To put the resources in place that allow them to be paying their bills on time for months to come," said Katie Rose-Imbriano, program counselor.

The program is a partnership between Catholic Charities and a private nonprofit, Seedco. In its first two months they've helped 200 people. That's not including the hundreds of others who utilize their facilities, like the food pantry at St. Clement. They say the number of poor is growing.

"People really struggling, a lot of people out of work, families struggling with issues of hunger," said Cathy Demeroto, Catholic Charities.

Across the country one in seven people are now below the poverty line, which is less than $22,000 a year for a family of four. Program organizers say 90 percent of clients have never needed assistance before.

"It's very, very hard asking for help and sometimes you ask for help and the doors are closed," said Figuero.

But after finding help, she is on the road to self sufficiency.

"I felt relief, a really big relief," said Figuero.

There are six parishes in Baltimore County that have the EarnBenefits Outreach Program. For more information, or to schedule an appointment call 410-261-5824.