Two Charlotteans are breathing a sigh of relief after receiving essential appliances, thanks to a generous donation from Lowe’s.
Lowe’s donation of $100,000 made it possible for Crisis Assistance Ministry’s team to purchase nearly 300 new appliances including washers, dryers, refrigerators, ranges, and microwaves. Here are the stories of two individuals who recently picked up brand new washers and dryers – a life-changing and inspirational gift during a challenging time in their lives.
A “Blessing” for Hattie
“It felt like Christmas,” said Hattie, describing the day she brought her new washer and dryer home. Living alone on a fixed disability income and unable to come up with the money to replace her old washer and dryer when they broke down several years ago, Hattie struggled to get to the laundromat three times a week. “With COVID,” she said, “You just want to feel clean and safe. It came at a perfect time.”
Fifteen years ago, Hattie lost her husband and her only child within six weeks of each other. Today, she cares for her mother, who uses a wheelchair and oxygen, driving across town each day to ensure she is safe and has food to eat. Local partner agency DreamKey Partners completed Hattie’s screening and assessment before making the referral to Crisis Assistance Ministry, where she received brand new appliances thanks to the generosity of Lowe’s. Now, she can reclaim the time she spent in laundromats for a bit of self-care.
“It was a blessing that someone put me first,” Hattie said, “I am so thankful.”
The Gift of Time for Ursulla
With three children in the home, Ursulla has a lot of laundry to do each week. So, when the washing machine failed late last year, followed soon after by the dryer, it was a big problem. In the midst of a divorce and with only a part-time job, Ursulla couldn’t afford to replace the appliances. Hauling baskets of clothes up and down two flights of stairs to the laundry room in her apartment complex was exhausting and time-consuming.
Screened and referred by Charlotte Works/Equus Workforce Solutions, Ursulla now has a brand new washer and dryer from the Furniture & Appliance Store. With laundry access right in her own apartment, she has more time and energy to care for her children and keep them on track with school. “It’s such a wonderful convenience,” she said. “I really, really appreciate it.”
Crisis Assistance Ministry offers appliances to Mecklenburg County households facing financial hardship who are screened and referred by Partner Agencies across the community. Items are donated by the community and are distributed free of charge via the Partner Agency Network.