Lakecia's Story

As a nurse, Lakecia had confidence in her job security and ability to provide for her children. Careful financial planning had even allowed Lakecia to move her family into a nicer home.

One day while assisting a patient at work, Lakecia injured her back. She was unable to work and her doctor prescribed months of physical therapy. While waiting to be enrolled in workers’ comp, Lakecia was evicted.

For three months Lakecia moved frequently with her children, staying with friends and family. Often Lakecia would have to wash school uniforms in a sink or use the children’s sick days at school because she lacked transportation.

“It’s a lot for kids to go through,” said Lakecia. “I’m embarrassed to be like this in front of my kids.”

When Lakecia finally found an apartment, she was short on the deposit. Having already exhausted her friends and family with favors, Lakecia turned to St. Vincent de Paul for help with the deposit.

“St. Vincent didn’t take me through the hoops that everyone else did,” said Lakecia. “By the grace of God I’m still making it. St. Vincent never turned their back on me.”