Megan’s Case Story

In the split second it takes for an Achilles tendon to tear, a family’s financial stability can begin to unravel.

A torn Achilles tendon—the kind of injury that could happen to anyone—set in motion a series of events that threatened not just Megan’s* housing stability, but her family’s access to basic utilities. What began as a temporary medical leave quickly evolved into a complex financial emergency when a water leak coincided with the loss of income.

The Impact

Without paid medical leave, each day of recovery from the Achilles injury meant another day without income. During this already precarious period, a water leak in Megan’s home led to an unexpectedly high utility bill. Though the water company adjusted the charges, the remaining balance still far exceeded what was manageable on a restricted budget.

The situation created a dangerous domino effect: the past-due water bill triggered a shut-off notice, which would violate the terms of the rent voucher she received through the city’s Housing Authority. Loss of the voucher would mean an immediate and substantial increase in rent—an impossible burden while managing recovery and reduced income.

“[Having] someone in the community to help is awesome,” Megan reflected. “It shows single parents that someone cares.” Though she worked to shield her children from her growing anxiety, they sensed their mother’s mounting stress as she navigated this cascade of financial pressures.

Preserving Stability Through Rapid Response

When Footbridge learned of Megan’s situation, they recognized how quickly this temporary setback could escalate into a housing crisis. Their payment of $1,902.27 directly to the water company prevented service termination, preserving both the family’s access to essential utilities and their housing stability through the Housing Choice Voucher program.

The Bigger Picture

Megan’s case illuminates how quickly ordinary events—an accidental injury, a plumbing problem—can threaten a family’s foundation. When multiple challenges converge, even temporary setbacks can trigger a cascade of consequences that put stable housing at risk.

Through rapid, targeted intervention, timely assistance does more than prevent utility shutoffs—it preserves a family’s ability to focus on recovery without sacrificing basic needs or housing security.

*This name has been changed for privacy reasons.