WE REAP WHAT WE SOW

Mary and Pat have long supported the Spokane community. Mary has worked in nonprofit development for over 25 years, and personally witnessed the beneficiaries of nonprofit causes, and she knows how much those services can mean – literally keeping people alive in many cases.

She would not have expected at this stage of life that they would end up being recipients of services provided by one of these agencies. And yet, here they are.

Years ago, Pat battled and overcame a malignant brain tumor, and he was in remission for the past ten years. In January of 2023, Pat tripped at work while carrying a heavy item and suffered a bad blow to his forehead, which led to an MRI that depicted an abnormality on his brain. An appointment with his former surgeon revealed the unthinkable – he had another brain tumor.

Pat underwent a successful surgery and with physical therapy and Mary’s assistance, he returned to work part-time light duty, 3.5 weeks after surgery. Due to inconsistencies with pathology reports, his follow up treatment was delayed. Pat began having balance issues and only a short time later, they discovered that the tumor had returned and was pressing on his left leg.

As Pat continued to have mobility issues, Mary sought support to make modifications to their home. Their community at Spokane Christian Center Church, plus family members and neighbors were quick to help with transferring Pat in and out of bed daily, providing meals, house chores, snow removal, yard work, moving beds and Mary’s office to the main floor, even building a wheelchair ramp, since Pat hasn’t been able to walk since last April.

Getting Pat to and from medical appointments posed another challenge. Because he couldn’t get in and out of their vehicle and needed the wheelchair, their options were extremely limited. They were utilizing medical transport services five days a week, but it quickly became cost prohibitive, with a 4-mile roundtrip ride costing nearly $90. Pat hasn’t been able to work since last April, and while Mary is able to work from home, COBRA insurance rates and other associated medical expenses and unbudgeted costs are taxing on them: “I keep tightening the belt,” Mary says.

“If you don’t make deposits into the community, you can’t expect to take withdrawals. If you have the seeds, it’s imperative to sow the seeds,” Mary explains.

Mary’s sister-in-law read about SNAP’s Resource Ride programs and suggested she reach out. Since last summer, they have been able to get rides with program manager, Joe Lachnit, which has been a relief, both financially and for peace of mind. With safe and reliable transport to appointments, they have also connected with Joe. “Pat and Mary might hold the record for the greatest number of ‘Thank Yous’ I have received from clients. Private transportation for Pat, even for a short ride, is cost-prohibitive. For Mary, the pressure of helping a loved one fight for their life daily is incredibly difficult. I am so glad I can help ease some of their burden with no-cost rides to Pat’s medical appointments.” Mary has donated to the Resource Ride programs to show her support and pay it forward.

All the while, Mary remains optimistic and passionate about caring for Pat. He is working hard to recover, and she knows he is a fighter – and he has won this battle before. While she works to maintain her job, Pat’s medical appointments, ongoing medical insurance issues, and their household, she knows how crucial their friends and family have been, and she is grateful for services such as SNAP’s for removing a barrier to receiving life-saving treatment. A multitude of people within their network are lending a hand through this challenging time. But it is no wonder – up until now, they have been that support to others, giving back to their community. Mary trusts in this karma, and she will again support causes they are passionate about when their financial situation levels out. “If you don’t make deposits into the community, you can’t expect to take withdrawals. If you have the seeds, it’s imperative to sow the seeds,” Mary explains. Though now may be a time for Mary and Pat to lean on others for support, they will again be the pillars of assistance when they overcome this hardship.

JOIN US FOR TWO FUN WAYS TO SUPPOSRT SNAP THIS SPRING!

Hear our engaging keynote speaker Jessica Bonar, and learn how your support helps your neighbors. May 1st – Spokane Central Library. Doors open at 11:30 a.m. Program 12 – 1 p.m. We’re bringing back our luncheon. Come with a friend! Learn more @snapwa.org/connect

June 16th – Riverfront Park. 5k and 1-mile fun run Races start at 9 a.m. We are changing it up this year! Join the celebration of Expo’s 50th anniversary, Expect the same great race and family-friend elements! Visit www.snapwa.org/ddd5k for information!

INNOVATIVE PROGRAMS SHOW EARLY SUCCESS

Last Fall, SNAP and Avista rolled out a new energy program – My Energy Discount – WA. This program was years in the making with the intention of lowering clients’ energy cost burden to 6% of their annual household income. Discounted amount for enrolled households varies based on household size and income. With only three months of reporting since the program rolled out, SNAP has helped over 31,000 Avista customers enroll, meaning they can take advantage of this great cost savings!

With the income threshold higher than previous energy assistance, estimates show that many people in the region still qualify for this benefit – Encourage your friends and neighbors to find out if they qualify!

A NEW WAY TO GIVE SUPPORT THAT CAN HELP YOU AND SNAP!

We are excited to announce the launch of new and exciting ways to give! By donating appreciated stock, Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs) from an IRA, cryptocurrency, or Donor-Advised Funds (DAFs) you can sustain our mission while achieving your financial goals at the same time.