After a serious car accident robbed him of his job and nearly his life, Fred was able to find his way back to stability as a result of our Resiliency Bridge program, which will disappear at the end of September unless new funding is secured.
In 2023, Fred was working as a school teacher and owned a commercial cleaning business, until he and his brother were rear-ended while heading home from work.
Fred had to go on Medicaid and undergo hours of intensive physical therapy and rehabilitation, while simultaneously navigating housing instability due to job loss and the loss of his business. After being out of work for over a year, Fred was referred to the Resiliency Bridge program by Goodwill of Central Ohio while he was pursuing the CompTIA Security certification, an important credential in the IT sector.
From January through November of 2024, Home for Families provided crucial financial assistance to Fred, covering his rent, utilities, phone bill, and car insurance, ensuring that he could focus on his studies and career goals without the burden of financial stress.
Fred now serves as a Training Specialist for Goodwill Columbus' Work and Community Services program, which provides support for individuals with developmental disabilities.
“The Resiliency Bridge program was a divine intervention in my life, and I am forever grateful,” Thomas said.
