We understand that neighbors face a variety of issues, and sometimes it takes multiple agencies to help someone get back on their feet. At SHIM, we value our partnerships with local agencies, representatives, community groups, and volunteers.
Recently, we worked with Adam (name changed to protect anonymity). Adam came to SHIM’s food pantry distribution when he was struggling to make ends meet. He lost his job a few years ago when his employer had to close operations. After receiving nutritious food to supplement his monthly grocery purchases, he was referred to our utility assistance program, which helped him catch up on utility bills to find more economic stability.
With his wife in a nursing home with major medical needs, Adam struggled to regain employment and came to SHIM for additional help. He needed transportation assistance since he couldn’t afford to pay for car repairs, inspection, registration renewal, and a driver’s license renewal. His car had been sitting in a repair shop for a year because he couldn’t afford to pay for the completed repairs.
We see this often at SHIM, where a transportation barrier can have a spiraling effect on someone’s economic situation. Without transportation, it can be hard to find work, but without work, it can be hard to pay for transportation.
As Adam worked to renew his driver’s license, car registration, and inspection, he ran into some hurdles but was unable to find someone at the DMV who could help. SHIM service coordinator Lisa Turske suggested that he contact his representative Dan Miller to gain additional assistance.
“Our office is always happy to help! We appreciate all the work SHIM does for the community and are incredibly thankful for the partnership we have together.”– Rep. Dan Miller
Service Coordinator Lisa Turske
Through Rep. Miller’s office, Adam learned that he had over $1,000 in unpaid turnpike tolls incurred through business trips across the state. He was under the impression that his employer had paid them and was surprised to learn that he was responsible for them. Since the company he worked for no longer existed, he was solely responsible for this cost.
Adam was not in a position to pay these tolls and was shocked that his former employer left this debt for him to cover. He is working with Pennsylvania’s Attorney General’s office to resolve the issue. Then, SHIM will be able to pay for Adam’s car repairs and inspection to get him back on the road.
We’re grateful for partners like Rep. Miller, whose office worked diligently to help Adam.
“Adam spoke very highly of Rep. Miller and his staff and the progress they have been able to make on his behalf. I love that our combined efforts will result in Adam getting his car back.” -Lisa Turske, SHIM Service Coordinator
Find out how we connect neighbors to resources on our Financial Wellness page.
