This article is created by the nonprofit news organization Capital & Main and is shared with permission.

In her early 30s, Belen Hernandez found herself at a low point. Living in Boyle Heights, Los Angeles, Hernandez and her partner, Henry Verdin, both struggled with addiction and were in desperate financial straits in 2017 when a relative discovered them homeless under a bridge.

Salvador “Chava” Thomas, their family member, helped them overcome their addiction, but the journey to recovery was a tough one. Once they regained their health, Hernandez and Verdin sought employment in the film security sector, taking on minimum-wage jobs. Unfortunately, Hernandez had to leave her job when her newborn son exhibited developmental delays and was diagnosed with autism.

The weight of the situation began to feel overwhelming for Hernandez. “I felt so lost,” she recalled during a phone interview.

Unexpectedly, help was on the way.

A friend, whose job was finding housing for the homeless, suggested that Hernandez reach out to the Los Angeles branch of LIFT, a national nonprofit that approaches poverty alleviation with a distinct philosophy.

At LIFT, Hernandez was matched with a life coach who taught her essential skills for achieving financial stability. Even while managing day-to-day challenges, she was encouraged to think about her long-term aspirations and share those dreams. After two years of mentorship and improving her family’s finances, she attended a community business academy organized by LIFT to learn about starting and operating a small business.

Currently, Hernandez and Verdin, who is now her fiancé, continue to work in the film production security field, but as business owners rather than hourly employees.

“LIFT has been incredibly beneficial,” Hernandez said, noting that she remains active in the program. “I truly needed guidance, especially when I became a new mom while my partner worked long hours. This program made a significant impact on our lives.”

The only cost to Hernandez and her family: their hard work and commitment.

Small Financial Support, Big Life Lessons

There are numerous strategies to combat poverty and assist families facing financial hardship, similar to the many reasons individuals and families find themselves struggling. Some initiatives aim to prevent homelessness by offering significant financial assistance. Various government programs focus on early childhood education or the nutritional needs of children, among other specific areas.

In contrast, LIFT, based in Washington, D.C., takes a different approach. They do provide some financial aid, but mostly small amounts intended to make a slight difference – around $150 per quarter over two years, totaling about $1,200. Their primary focus is on education and empowering participants toward self-sufficiency.

“Yes, cash assistance is important, but it’s only part of the solution,” explained Michelle Rhone-Collins, CEO of LIFT. “The core of our program revolves around developing financial literacy and providing the necessary support to make those funds truly effective while helping individuals focus on their goals and aspirations.”

LIFT specializes in personalized, long-term mentorship. Life coaches often develop enduring relationships with participants like Hernandez, who values her regular monthly meetings. Her coach assisted her in defining the vision for her security company and guided her through essential steps like obtaining licenses, managing employee paperwork, and securing small business loans.

Since its founding in 1998, LIFT initially aimed to assist individuals of all ages, but it has since refined its focus to support parents with young children, aiming to create positive impacts across two generations at once. Previously relying heavily on volunteers from colleges, it has evolved into a more established, professional organization.

“For young families, we help identify what is needed to advance your career, escape the traps of low pay, and achieve job stability. What are your true ambitions?” said Rhone-Collins. “The goal is to elevate you from minimum wage to a living wage and beyond.”

LIFT Will Support Over 900 Families This Year

LIFT’s mission centers around providing financial, employment, and educational coaching, all offered at no cost to participants. With offices in Chicago, New York, Washington D.C., and Los Angeles, the organization aims to assist over 900 families this year, approximately 350 of whom are located in the Los Angeles area.

Rhone-Collins stated that by collaborating with various partners and guiding them in delivering economic mobility coaching, LIFT extends its reach to an additional 7,000 families nationwide. They have also partnered with the Head Start program to provide guidance on economic mobility.

According to the organization’s assessments, their impact is substantial: over 90% of families involved with LIFT report financial improvements, with an average annual income increase of about $20,000. The vast majority of participants are people of color, with 99% identifying as such and 93% being women.

LIFT’s services are available not only in its own facilities but also at community colleges and early childhood programs.

Most participants discover the program through centers and medical offices. For example, LIFT’s office is situated inside the Magnolia Place Family Center in Los Angeles’ Pico-Union area.

Belen Hernandez found out about LIFT thanks to a friend’s recommendation, which turned out to be crucial for her. She had never heard of such a program before, which is common for smaller nonprofits. However, she recognized that she needed help managing her household finances and creating a future plan. After joining, she not only received that support but much more, leading her to remain engaged with the program for years.

“Yesterday, I had my scheduled call with my coach,” Hernandez shared. “It continues to guide me in setting my priorities and outlining our path forward.”

Copyright 2024 Capital & Main.