5 Times Housing Forward’s Flex Fund Made All the Difference

At Housing Forward, we believe that even small acts of kindness can make a big difference in someone’s life. That’s why we’re raising $45,000 for our Flex Fund this North Texas Giving Day. The Flex Fund is a critical resource, covering minor but impactful expenses that can be the difference between continued homelessness and a new beginning in stable housing.  

See how access to flex fund has powerfully impacted five people’s lives:  

A $1,000 Deposit to Change Henry’s Life: Henry, a 68-year-old with physical disabilities, found himself facing an impossible situation. He had been experiencing homelessness for years and now has the chance to move into a new apartment but was unable to afford the deposit on his fixed income. Without this deposit, Henry risked losing the opportunity for stable housing. Thankfully, with the support of the Flex Fund, Housing Forward was able to cover the deposit, ensuring Henry could move in. With his new home secured, Henry now has the stability he needs to focus on saving and moving toward self-sustainability. 

Turning an Empty Space into Evelyn’s Home: For many, moving into a new home is a time of hope and renewal, but for Evelyn, a 66-year-old on a fixed income, it also came with a challenge—she couldn’t afford the basic furnishings to make her new apartment livable. Without a bed, sheets, or even dishes, her apartment didn’t feel like a home. Housing Forward stepped in with the Flex Fund, providing Evelyn with essential furniture and household goods. Now, Evelyn’s apartment isn’t just a place to live; it’s a place she can truly call home. 

A Home for Samantha’s Family: Samantha and her four children were struggling with the rising cost of rent, eventually becoming unable to afford their apartment. Forced to move her family to a hotel, Samantha faced uncertainty and fear about their future. With the help of a local service provider, Samantha found a new apartment that was nearly within reach—but the $1,200 security deposit was a major hurdle. Through the Flex Fund, Housing Forward paid the deposit, allowing Samantha and her children to move into their new home within 48 hours. Now, they have the stability they need to build a brighter future. 

A Ticket to Rachel and Buddy’s New Life: Rachel lived on the streets for five years with her loyal companion, Buddy, by her side. When the opportunity arose to move into an apartment, Rachel was ready—except for one small but crucial barrier: a $44 pet deposit. For Rachel, this seemingly minor expense was the difference between continuing to live under a highway or starting a new life in stable housing. The Flex Fund stepped in, paying the pet deposit and ensuring that Rachel and Buddy could begin their journey toward a “happily ever after” in their new home. 

A Fresh Start for Tony: Tony had finally found an apartment he could afford, and everything seemed to be falling into place. Tony was eager to move in and start rebuilding his life. However, when he learned about the application fee, his excitement quickly turned to worry. Without a steady income and no savings to fall back on, Tony feared he might lose the opportunity to secure the apartment. That’s when Housing Forward stepped in. Through the Flex Fund, we were able to cover the application fee, ensuring that Tony’s application could be processed without delay. It might seem like a small amount, but for Tony, it was the key to unlocking a future where he could finally have a place to call home. With the application fee paid, Tony was approved for the apartment, and he’s no longer worrying about where he’ll sleep at night. Instead, he’s focusing on his next steps, knowing he has a stable foundation to build upon. 

These are just a few examples of how the Flex Fund is making a real difference in the lives of people experiencing homelessness. But we can’t do it without you. Early giving for North Texas Giving Day is open now until the end of September 19th. Every dollar you donate will go directly to helping individuals like Henry, Evelyn, Samantha, Rachel, and Tony overcome the small financial barriers that stand between them and stable housing. 

Help us reach our goal of raising $45,000 and give our neighbors the chance to start fresh. Your support can change lives—one deposit, one piece of furniture, one bus ticket at a time. 

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