I feel very blessed to be in a job where I have paid time off. When I end up sick, I don’t have to worry about much more than getting better.

I won’t be penalized for missing work. I don’t have to worry about how I will pay my bills. I don’t need to question whether I can afford groceries to feed my family. There isn’t any question whether my job will be waiting for me when I’ve healed.

For people who are working hourly jobs without benefits as they try to support their family, it’s a constant struggle. Once you add in a sick day, for yourself or a child, you are not only behind on your bills (if you weren‘t already) but you may be out of a job as well. It’s a cycle, and one we see through Rochester Salvation Army doors on a regular basis.

That’s why I enjoy what I do: I am helping people who are working so hard to help themselves and simply can’t get a leg up. We want to help end the cycle of poverty in whatever way we can; whether it’s rental assistance, a clothing voucher, a bus pass, or a prayer, we’re here to help.

Isaiah 25:4 says:

Poor people have come to you for safety.
You have kept needy people safe when they were in trouble.
You have been a place to hide when storms came.
You have been a shade from the heat of the sun.

Originally posted on RochesterSA.org.