“The Whites reached Family Haven after calling Harvest House on the recommendation of friend. They had hit hard times in returning to Sarasota from North Carolina, where Jason, a carpenter by trade, had found work temporarily. A car accident in South Carolina wiped them out financially, and they had nowhere to stay after they arrived. Jason found work as a day laborer, but it wasn’t enough for move-in costs on a new home.
Once at Family Haven, the Whites were able to get on their feet and were moved into the rental on North Euclid Avenue, part of a complex of subsidized homes owned by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. The HUD program pays two-thirds of the rent, which means the Whites only have to pay $255 per month while they get more financially stable.
“It’s like a weight lifted off my shoulders.” – Laura White
Like others in the Family Haven program, they must be at work or school by 8 a.m. and attend life skills classes. Cheryl Clunk, director of family services for Harvest House, said the Whites appear to be succeeding.”
