Kathy Stanley still hopeful after lifelong struggle with poverty
By CARISSA MIKKELSEN
DCN Reporter
Kathy Stanley, 40, has struggled with poverty her entire life. Raised by her ailing grandmother in rural Missouri, Kathy quit school after the ninth grade in order to work full time.
“Growing up with my grandma was good; although it was a struggle for us to survive each day,� said Kathy.
With the death of her grandmother, Kathy began working for a carnival, which eventually brought her to Minnesota. Although, after 12 years of service attending to, “The Titanic," a giant slide for kids, she suffered knee injuries and quit.
With the loss of a job and leaving an abusive relationship, Kathy soon found herself on the streets and seeking help from Churches United in Ministry (CHUM).
“At least I have a place to stay instead of being out in the cold or with him,� said Kathy.
Being hopeful to get back on her feet, Kathy has been looking for a job in Duluth, although her search has been less than fruitful.
“I guess I just ain’t got the experience they want,� said Kathy. “Right now, I’m surviving off donating plasma which is about $40 a week.�