A Helping Hand When it's Needed Most

My wife died a year and a half ago. She was my superglue - my Susie Homemaker. In our 70 years together, we had five kids and 15 grandkids. In our marriage, she took care of our home and bills. I can’t use a computer, and writing checks was something I never learned. I didn’t know anything except how to work hard and provide the best life I could to her and our kids. So when I lost her, I also lost my grip on my finances. And I was struggling.

North Hills Community Outreach offered a helping hand when I needed it most. Now, don’t get me wrong – I’ve never been one to sit back and rely on others. Both my parents struggled with alcohol addiction, requiring me to be self-reliant from a young age. I got my education from the streets of the Northside, and grew up tough. School wasn’t my thing, and I eventually dropped out in eighth grade.

I lied about my age and joined the Army. After six months they found out and discharged me. I rejoined the armed forces when I turned 17 and packed parachutes for Air Force pilots. After leaving the Air Force, I started digging ditches for an engineering company and worked my way up to machinist. I eventually landed a nice job selling tools that allowed me to comfortably support my wife, kids and my mother in law. I am very proud of the lives that our kids built for themselves.

As self-assured as I am, you would think I’d know how to take care of bills and whatnot, but I don’t. I was absolutely lost. Then I saw something about NHCO on the news and tried reaching out. Annelise at NHCO is now taking great care of me – and my bills.

She worked tirelessly with the utility companies to get my electric and gas bills down so I could afford them. That was a huge help because of my limited income. She helped me get food stamps so I can go grocery shopping. Another service coordinator at NHCO got me a phone that better served my needs as I am hard of hearing. Someone else with the organization is helping me find a senior living high-rise. With my wife gone and my children grown, my current home is too big for only me.

It’s been so nice to watch NHCO help others and do good in the community. Experiencing the sense of community at the Millvale Food Pantry has helped me since losing my wife. I’m a people person, and it’s too lonesome in my house by myself. With NHCO’s help, I have been able to focus on joining this community of helpers and those who care while receiving the assistance I need to set my mind at ease. Now I’m concentrating more on writing poetry, something I’ve done for many years. My daughter keeps encouraging me to write an autobiography - so I might try that. But most importantly, I can focus my energy on being the best dad and grandpa that I can be.

NHCO has looked out for me while I adjusted to being on my own. If you have problems, find the people who know the solutions. No shame in asking for help. That is what community is here for. That’s why I like it here at NHCO. They’re a community of problem solvers and good souls.