Volunteer

Stephanie Crum is a Bargain Loft Volunteer

Meet Stephanie Crum one of our newest volunteers at the Bargain Loft. Stephanie, a mother of two teenagers, reluctantly called FISH for help with a large electric power bill. She had recently been laid off from her assistant manager position at a Reston Town Center retail store and became separated from her husband. Stephanie was having difficulty paying her bills and was worried about losing her home and putting food on the table for her children. Her husband sent financial help when he could, but due to the economy he lost his construction job. A friend and neighbor suggested she call the Herndon-Reston FISH Information and Referral line.

FISH paid Stephanie's electric bill and she says that at that point it looked like "there was light somewhere at the end of the tunnel." She says FISH's help gave her the courage she needed to go and apply for food stamps. She is so grateful to FISH for not judging her and treating her with respect which she believes kept her self-esteem from being damaged. Stephanie is currently interviewing for jobs. She is glad she is able to stay in the area and is presently being helped with her bills by her elderly parents. Stephanie is so grateful to FISH that she wanted to "pay back". She recently started volunteering on Saturdays at The Bargain Loft. In addition, she proudly announced that everything she was wearing was bought at a thrift store. "I will never pay full-price again!"

Interview by Marcia Di Trapani