September 21, 2025
A Rockford Native with a Dream
Born and raised in Rockford, Jasmine Evans (name changed for privacy) always knew she wanted to do something meaningful with her life. At 34 years old, living in Scattered Sites East, she was juggling work, responsibilities, and the quiet hope for something greater. With an associate degree in medical studies already under her belt and a passion for helping others, Jasmine had a vision: to return to school, re-enter the medical field, and eventually buy a home she could call her own.
But like many, she found herself stuck not because of lack of ambition, but because of life’s financial and emotional hurdles.
Living Check to Check and Stuck in the System
When Jasmine joined the Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) program, she was in a difficult place. Her credit score hovered near 500, her savings account was empty, and every paycheck vanished into basic survival. She worked full-time as a Resident Coordinator at a local nonprofit called Remedies helping others even while she struggled to get ahead herself. More than anything, Jasmine wanted to build a future where she could thrive not just survive.
FSS, Laura Martinez, and the Power of a Check-In
Jasmine’s journey truly began when she connected with the FSS program through Stephanie, and soon after, was paired with her FSS Coordinator, Laura Martinez.
Laura’s presence was more than professional it was personal.
Jasmine shared, “Laura definitely kept in touch. She was the one I could always reach out to with questions. I feel like she helped me stay on track.”
FSS became the place where Jasmine could breathe, reflect, and strategize. It wasn’t a handout—it was a toolkit, and Jasmine used every tool she was given.
Build Credit, Grow Savings, Stay Focused
From the very first session, Jasmine set clear goals:
At first, she doubted herself. “Honestly, I wasn’t sure if the program would help. I even thought I shouldn’t have signed up.” Jasmine stated.
But she stuck with it and those doubts faded over time as she began to see her own progress. Five years later, she graduated from the program—and not just on paper. She had grown into someone who saw her worth, understood her finances, and stood stronger than ever before.
A Stronger Woman, Financially and Personally
By the end of her time in the program, Jasmine had completely shifted her mindset and her habits.
“I’ve become a stronger woman overall. I know how to save, how to plan, and how to keep moving forward.”
She continues to work at Remedies, helping others find hope the way she found hers. And now, she’s actively working toward buying her first home and returning to school to rejoin the medical field.
What If She Never Took the First Step?
Jasmine almost didn’t sign up. Her doubts could have kept her frozen in place. And if she hadn’t pushed through, she might still be stuck in survival mode—paycheck to paycheck, weighed down by low credit and no savings.
But she made a different choice. And her story shows what’s possible when you take that first step, even when you’re uncertain.
Believe It’s Possible—Then Take the Leap
To others who are considering the Family Self-Sufficiency Program, Jasmine has just one piece of advice: “Definitely give it a try. This program helps you set goals. And as you go, you start seeing changes—in your life and in yourself. If you stay strong and keep moving forward, you’ll be amazed where you end up.”
Want to start your own journey?
Learn more about the Family Self-Sufficiency program and discover the support, strategy, and confidence waiting for you.
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