Someone’s world is changed each time you make a donation. On their behalf, we say Thank You!

Mel came to Billings about five years ago and stayed in a tent with her two sons. “They thought we were camping…in truth, we were really homeless”. Being new to Billings, Mel didn’t know where to turn. Someone told her about Family Service, Inc.

“If it weren’t for the help we got, I don’t know where we’d be” Mel says. “The back to school program was really great—you helped put my kids through school with dignity. They grew so fast and the free clothing room meant I could go and get clothes for them that fit that they weren’t embarrassed to wear to school. Keep doing what you’re doing. It makes a huge difference”.

(Mel was helped with many basic needs like housing and food. She now holds a fulltime job with a corporation here in Billings. Here kids have recently graduated high school—something she attests was helped by support from Family Service).

“As elderly persons, Family Service has been tremendous—they have given good guidance to us during medical crisis that caused unforeseen expenses. During times when we were so very short on money and faced with so many difficult financial decisions, it gave us hope and comfort to know that we would always have food on our table because of the help they provide.” ~Loretta and Frank S.

“I unexpectedly became homeless due to choices I had made. When I found out my boyfriend was using METH, and drugs were in my house, I took my five year old child and went to a friend’s home—I’ve been sleeping there on the floor for the last month. Because of the help of the staff at Family Service, I have found a positive job and will be moving with my daughter intomy own place. It was really hard to look at all I had to do. I was encouraged to make a list of goals and stick to it rather than overwhelming myself with ALL the problems I faced. I am truly grateful for the encouraging words and helpful
advice that came from Teresa and Travis (FSI workers) I thank you from the bottom of my heart!” ~Brenda M.

(Brenda began her new job, and moved into her new home last March).

A gentleman came in and asked our receptionist if he could have a hygiene kit. (These have soap, toiletries, a razor, toothbrush, etc.). He told her he had a job interview and ‘wanted to get cleaned up’. When he told the receptionist he was currently homeless, she offered him a sack lunch and asked if he could use a new shirt for the interview too. Because of an employee’s kind and compassionate questions, this man could feel more confident going to his job interview! 

 “At 53 years of age, and starting all over again, it (life) seemed absolutely impossible. Family Service has been very helpful—my relationship with you truly a godsend. You provided help when I needed it, and referred me to other organizations when I needed that too. You gave me motivation to be able to stand on my own two feet again! I am grateful that everyone at Family Service treated me with respect and compassion—it meant a lot. You helped me with food, energy assistance, and housewares… but just as meaningful was the guidance and moral support you gave me. Starting over did seem absolutely impossible at first, but with your help, I am doing it! Thank you so much for ‘being there’ with help when I needed it most.” ~Maxine S.

Michelle had lost her job in a company downsizing. While looking for work her limited savings had been depleted and she was down to her last few dollars. She required help with her rent so that she would not become homeless. Family Service was able to help. A few weeks later she came back in—the best dressed woman in our waiting area. She had a very important job interview, but admitted she did not have gas in her car to get there. We were able to provide a voucher for gasoline and she made it to the interview on time. She was so excited when she called the next day to let us know she had gotten the job and was thankful for the help provided. Because people give, we were able to provide the help Michelle needed when it mattered the most.

Often times our clients wait for hours to receive something as elemental as a box of food.

Recently we helped a woman who was closely watching the clock while waiting. Her story? She had to report for her first day of work in less than 30 minutes, but she was hungry and the cupboards were empty. Discovering her dilemma, we helped her right away. The food she received bridges a vital gap while waiting for her first paycheck to purchase food on her own.

 “I’ll never forget the first time I came to Family Service” says Dan Sloan, a Store Director for Albertsons.
“There was a long line outside the door. I saw someone I knew standing in the line, so I asked him what it was for. I was really shocked when he told me it was for food boxes. I guess I never knew how many people were hungry in our area, and that they are people who look an awful lot like you and me”.

Do your donations change the world? When you make a donation to Family Service, it does changethe world for one person who was giving up hope… one person who couldn’t pay their rent… the mom whose kids didn’t have any clothes that fit, or the elderly couple whose medication costs have risen and they can’t put food on the table. Join our effort to help our neighbors in need!