Life has been far from easy for Joanne. But what makes her amazing is that no matter what’s in front of her, she has an unbreakable resilience filled with love and selfless actions for others.

At 67, Joanne has overcome significant hurdles, including a disability from a car accident and overcoming a bout with addiction. Today, she’s sober and is grateful to savor the simple pleasure of life.

Life’s latest challenge came abruptly when her daughter, battling addiction, could no longer care for Joanne’s two grandchildren. Without hesitation, Joanne opened her arms and home to the two boys, gaining custody to provide them with the stability they desperately needed. Despite her disabilities and advancing years, love knows no bounds for Joanne.

80 miles. That’s how far she travels every day, ensuring her youngest grandchild, who has severe intellectual disabilities, receives the specialized education he needs. She’s always there on time, sending him off with a loving hug and greeting him with a warm smile.

But even the strongest among us can stumble. With winter approaching, it became a struggle to keep up with basic needs. Joanne fell behind on her utilities bill and could not afford heating oil. “I was exhausted, without much hope,” she reflects on that difficult time.

Her turning point came when she called Catholic Charities NH. Our Community Services team sprang into action, reviewing her financial situation and securing immediate relief through donor-supported assistance, arranging for 100 gallons of heating oil to warm her home. We also helped arrange further support from local resources to ensure her family’s warmth in the months to come.

Grateful, Joanne thanks Catholic Charities NH donors for restoring her hope and lifting her spirits.

Joanne is one of many examples showing the power a gesture of support can have. It not only lifts our New Hampshire neighbors in their darkest of times, but also reinforces the powerful message that no one in our community is ever truly alone.