You’re facing a million challenges as a low-income family in Louisiana. You’re likely struggling to make ends meet. What assistance is available to you?
Key Takeaways
- Louisiana Assistance Program aids low-income families.
- Eligibility requires income and residency proof.
- SNAP and Medicaid are available assistance programs.
- Applications can be submitted online or in-person.
- Program guidelines must be followed for assistance.
Getting Started With The Louisiana Assistance Program
You’re taking a significant step by exploring community resources. To apply, follow application tips, such as gathering required documents and submitting them on time.
This helps you navigate the process efficiently, ensuring you get the assistance you’re eligible for.
Eligibility Requirements For The Louisiana Assistance Program
You’ve taken the first step by learning how to apply for the Louisiana Assistance Program, and now it’s time to understand what makes you eligible.
You’ll need to provide income verification, showing your income is below a set percentage of the federal poverty level.
Additionally, you must provide residency proof, confirming you’re a Louisiana resident.
Documentation of citizenship or legal status is also required to determine your eligibility for the program.
Types Of Assistance Available
You can get help with basic needs through Louisiana’s assistance programs, which offer food help, such as SNAP and WIC, to support you in buying nutritious food.
You’re also eligible for cash aid, including FITAP and KCSP, which provide financial assistance for essential expenses.
Additionally, you can receive health benefits, and other forms of assistance, such as energy and child care aid, to support your overall well-being.
Food Help
As you navigate the challenges of food insecurity, it’s essential to know that various assistance programs are available to support you.
You can access a food pantry or participate in meal programs. Organizations like Feeding Louisiana distribute food to those in need, ensuring access to nutrition.
They collaborate with regional food banks, providing essential support to families and individuals across the state, helping you get the food help you need.
Cash Aid
Financial struggles can be overwhelming, and it’s essential to know that various cash aid programs are available to support individuals and families in need.
You can access programs that promote financial stability. Some options include:
- FITAP for families with children
- Kinship Care Subsidy
- Unemployment benefits for eligible individuals, to achieve financial stability with cash aid.
Health Benefits
When struggling to make ends meet, accessing quality healthcare can be a significant challenge, but Louisiana’s health benefits programs can help.
You can get health coverage through Medicaid services, which cover long-term care needs. Medicaid and LaCHIP provide necessary medical services, ensuring you and your family receive proper care.
These programs offer essential support, helping you access healthcare when you need it most, with Medicaid services covering a range of health needs.
Financial Help For Low-Income Families
You’re likely looking for ways to get back on your feet, and financial help is available for low-income families in Louisiana.
If you’re struggling to make ends meet, you can investigate options like cash aid, which provides temporary assistance with basic needs, or food help, such as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), to guarantee you have access to nutritious food.
You can also get medical care through programs like Medicaid, which offers health coverage to low-income individuals and families, helping you get the essential services you need.
Cash Aid
Because many Louisiana families struggle to make ends meet, the state offers cash aid programs to provide a safety net. You can benefit from programs like FITAP.
Consider these:
- Eligibility requirements
- Application processes
- Benefit amounts.
Avoid common cash aid misconceptions and follow cash aid tips to navigate the system effectively.
Food Help
Someone struggling to put food on the table can find relief through Louisiana’s food assistance programs.
You can get help with food insecurity through programs like SNAP, which provides monthly financial assistance.
These programs also offer nutrition education to support healthy eating habits. They help low-income families access nutritious food, reducing food insecurity and promoting overall well-being.
Medical Care
Many low-income families in Louisiana struggle to access medical care due to financial constraints.
You can get health care through Medicaid or LaCHIP.
- Medicaid provides health coverage
- LaCHIP offers coverage for kids
Access to preventive services is available, ensuring you receive necessary medical care.
Healthcare Options For Low-Income Individuals
As you navigate the complexities of healthcare, it’s essential to know that Louisiana offers several options for low-income individuals.
You can access Medicaid benefits, which cover hospital visits and prescription medications.
LaCHIP coverage is also available, providing health insurance for low-income children, including routine check-ups and immunizations.
These programs can help you get the care you need, and you can apply by providing proof of income, residency, and identification.
How The Child Care Assistance Program Can Help You
Because you’re juggling multiple responsibilities, finding affordable child care can be a significant challenge.
The Child Care Assistance Program offers child care benefits, promoting financial stability.
Key advantages include:
- Reduced child care expenses
- Access to licensed providers
- Increased financial stability
It helps you achieve financial stability.
Education And Employment Support Through The Louisiana Assistance Program
You’re likely no stranger to the challenges of finding stable employment and accessing educational resources, especially when you’re already juggling multiple responsibilities.
The Louisiana Assistance Program offers support to boost your job readiness through vocational training and educational services. It provides resources like job placement assistance and resume-building workshops, helping you secure stable employment and improve your overall career prospects.
How To Apply For The Louisiana Assistance Program
You can apply online for the Louisiana Assistance Program, which allows you to easily submit your application from anywhere.
To get assistance with your application, you’ll need to gather required documents, including a signed contract and resolution of support, before filing.
You can file your application online or in person, and it’s crucial to guarantee you have all the necessary information and documents to avoid delays in the process.
Apply Online
When applying online for the Louisiana Assistance Program, how will you secure a smooth and successful submission process?
You’ll need to follow application tips, considering funding sources.
- Review eligibility criteria
- Prepare required documents
- Submit during open windows to guarantee a successful application.
Get Assistance
Because many Louisiana residents struggle to access basic necessities, the Louisiana Assistance Program is available to provide support.
You can get assistance through community outreach and project collaboration.
Eligible applicants include non-entitlement municipalities and parishes, which must comply with program guidelines.
You’ll need to align your project with eligible activities, such as fire protection or sewer projects, to receive funding and support.
File Application
The Louisiana Assistance Program’s application process kicks off on November 3, 2025, and it’s vital to be prepared.
You’ll need to understand the application timeline and grant funding.
Key documents include:
- Signed resolution of support
- Letters from local legislators
- Proof of compliance with program guidelines
to guarantee a smooth application process for grant funding.
What To Expect When Applying For Assistance
Most applicants find that maneuvering the process of applying for Louisiana assistance programs can be complex, so it’s essential you understand what to expect.
You’ll need to check the application timeline, as programs have designated windows. Prepare documents, like proof of income and residency, to expedite the process.
Understanding the application timeline and completing thorough document preparation will help you navigate the process.
Common Mistakes To Avoid When Applying For Assistance
When applying for Louisiana assistance programs, you’ll want to steer clear of common pitfalls that can hinder your progress.
Consider these application tips:
- Incomplete documentation
- Ineligible applications
- Missed deadlines.
Review your documentation checklist to guarantee accuracy and completeness, avoiding delays or denial.
Navigating The Louisiana Assistance Program
You’ve taken the first step by learning what to avoid when applying for assistance, and now you’re ready to navigate the Louisiana Assistance Program. Check energy assistance eligibility and community project funding.
| Funding | Eligibility |
|---|---|
| $25,000 | Small population |
| $50,000 | Medium population |
| $100,000 | Large population |
Apply for aid that suits your needs.
Troubleshooting Common Issues With The Program
Encountering issues with your Louisiana Assistance Program application can be frustrating, but it’s essential to address them promptly to avoid delays.
You’ll need to focus on application troubleshooting, checking documentation requirements.
Consider:
- Reviewing crisis appointments
- Checking for application inaccuracies
- Contacting your agency for processing timelines to resolve issues quickly.
Next Steps After Receiving Assistance
Receiving assistance from the Louisiana Assistance Program is a significant step towards achieving stability.
You’ll need to prioritize documentation management and eligibility monitoring to guarantee continued support.
Regularly review your benefits and eligibility status, as changes can impact assistance.
Effective management will help you navigate the program and make the most of available resources.
State-by-State Financial Assistance Programs: Cash Aid, General Relief & Eligibility
| Alabama | Alabama’s Family Assistance Program provides temporary cash to very low-income families with children, requiring US citizenship or qualified non‑citizen status and income below state limits. The Department of Human Resources also connects households to SNAP, Medicaid, and employment services. General assistance is not available for adults without children in the state. |
| Alaska | Alaska Temporary Assistance and the Adult Public Assistance program offer cash aid and supportive services requiring citizenship or eligible immigration status and income/resource tests. The Division of Public Assistance administers SNAP, Medicaid, and the Heating Assistance Program. General relief is not a separate program; emergency aid is provided through tribal and nonprofit partners. |
| Arizona | Arizona’s Cash Assistance program supports families with dependent children for a limited time, and the state offers General Assistance for adults who are unemployable due to disability. Applicants must be US citizens or qualified non‑citizens, meet income and resource limits, and cooperate with work requirements through the Department of Economic Security. SNAP, Medicaid, and job training are also accessible through the same agency. |
| Arkansas | Arkansas’s Transitional Employment Assistance (TEA) provides cash benefits to families with children, with a work‑first focus and citizen/eligible‑immigrant requirement. The Department of Human Services also administers SNAP, Medicaid, and workforce development. The state does not operate a general assistance program for childless adults, but emergency aid may be available through community action agencies. |
| California | California’s CalWORKs program gives cash aid and services to needy families, while General Assistance (GA) is available through counties for indigent adults without children. Eligibility requires US citizenship or satisfactory immigration status, income and asset limits, and compliance with welfare‑to‑work requirements. SNAP (CalFresh), Medi‑Cal, and supportive services are integrated into county human services offices. |
| Colorado | Colorado Works delivers cash assistance, job training, and work supports to low‑income families, with state residency and citizenship/eligible‑immigrant rules. The state also offers Aid to the Needy Disabled (AND) and Old Age Pension for certain adults without dependent children. Food assistance (SNAP) and Health First Colorado (Medicaid) are accessed through the same county human services network. |
| Connecticut | Connecticut’s Temporary Family Assistance (TFA) provides cash aid for families with children, and State Administered General Assistance (SAGA) helps childless adults who are unemployable due to disability or medical reasons. Applicants must be US citizens or lawfully present, meet income/asset limits, and participate in employment services. SNAP and HUSKY Health (Medicaid) are also administered through the Department of Social Services. |
| Delaware | Delaware’s TANF program offers temporary cash to families, and General Assistance (GA) provides minimal aid to disabled adults without children who meet strict disability and income tests. Eligibility demands US citizenship or qualified alien status, income below the standard of need, and cooperation with work or rehabilitation programs. SNAP and Medicaid are handled by the Division of Social Services through the ASSIST portal. |
| Florida | Florida’s Temporary Cash Assistance (TCA) aids families with children on a limited‑time basis with citizenship/eligible‑immigrant and income conditions. The state does not have a general assistance program for nondisabled adults without children, but SNAP, Medicaid, and relative caregiver assistance are accessible through the Department of Children and Families. Work participation is mandatory for TCA recipients. |
| Georgia | Georgia’s TANF program provides cash assistance to low‑income families with dependent children and requires US citizenship or legal permanent residency, income below program thresholds, and compliance with child support and work requirements. The Division of Family and Children Services also oversees SNAP, Medicaid, and child care subsidies. No general relief program exists for childless adults, but local nonprofits may offer emergency funds. |
| Hawaii | Hawaii offers various financial assistance programs. Eligibility requires US citizenship and income criteria. Programs include TANF and General Assistance. Financial literacy is also provided. Med‑QUEST Division offers Medicaid services. |
| Idaho | Idaho’s Temporary Assistance for Families in Idaho (TAFI) provides cash aid to families with qualifying income and citizenship/immigration status. The state also administers Aid to the Aged, Blind, and Disabled (AABD) for certain low‑income adults without children, requiring Social Security application and disability review. SNAP, Medicaid, and employment programs are accessed through the Department of Health and Welfare. |
| Illinois | Illinois’s TANF gives temporary cash to families, and the state offers General Assistance through local townships for adults without children who are unemployable or barely employable. Applicants must be US citizens or qualified immigrants, fall below income/resource limits, and register for work. SNAP and Medicaid are handled by the Department of Human Services via the ABE portal. |
| Indiana | Indiana’s TANF cash assistance helps families with children under strict income and citizenship guidelines. The state does not run a general assistance program for able‑bodied adults without dependents, but township trustees may provide short‑term emergency relief in some areas. SNAP, Hoosier Healthwise (Medicaid), and job placement are coordinated by the Family and Social Services Administration. |
| Iowa | Iowa’s Family Investment Program (FIP) provides cash benefits to families with minor children, requiring citizenship or legal residency and income verification. The state also offers State Supplementary Assistance for elderly and disabled individuals who meet SSI‑related criteria. SNAP, Medicaid, and support services are accessible through the Department of Human Services portal. |
| Kansas | Kansas’s Successful Families Program (TANF) delivers cash aid to families with children, with citizenship/eligible‑alien and income limits. General Assistance is not a statewide program; however, county‑level emergency aid may be available through the Department for Children and Families. SNAP, KanCare (Medicaid), and employment training are integrated into service centers. |
| Kentucky | Kentucky’s K‑TAP (TANF) offers cash to families with children and work requirements, requiring US citizenship or qualified status. The state has no general relief program for adults without children; the Cabinet for Health and Family Services coordinates SNAP, Medicaid, and support through kynect. Community action agencies may provide short‑term emergency cash in limited situations. |
| Maine | Maine’s TANF provides cash assistance and employment services to families with children, along with a General Assistance (GA) program administered by municipalities for individuals and families in crisis. GA recipients must be residents of the town, meet income and need standards, and reapply frequently. SNAP and MaineCare (Medicaid) are additionally handled by DHHS. |
| Maryland | Maryland’s Temporary Cash Assistance (TCA) supports families with children, and the state runs a General Public Assistance program for disabled adults without children who are ineligible for other aid. Citizenship/immigration status, income, and asset limits apply, and a medical certification of disability is required for GPA. SNAP and Medicaid are accessed through the same Department of Human Services offices. |
| Massachusetts | Massachusetts’s Transitional Aid to Families with Dependent Children (TAFDC) gives cash grants to families, while Emergency Aid to the Elderly, Disabled and Children (EAEDC) provides assistance to certain childless adults and individuals with disabilities. Eligibility requires US citizenship or authorized immigration status, income and resource tests, and medical documentation for disability claims. SNAP and MassHealth are integrated through DTA. |
| Michigan | Michigan’s Family Independence Program (FIP) provides cash to families with children, and the State Disability Assistance (SDA) program serves adults without children who are disabled and awaiting SSI. All applicants must be US citizens or qualified aliens and meet income/asset limits. SNAP, Medicaid, and other benefits are managed through the MI Bridges portal by MDHHS. |
| Minnesota | Minnesota’s MFIP combines cash and food assistance for families, while General Assistance (GA) provides monthly grants to adults without children who have disabilities or are over 65 with very low income. Citizenship/qualified‑non‑citizen status and income/asset tests are required. SNAP, Medical Assistance, and employment services are all accessed through county human services. |
| Mississippi | Mississippi’s TANF grants temporary cash to families with children, requiring US citizenship or eligible immigrant status and strict income limits. There is no statewide general assistance for nondisabled adults without children. SNAP, Medicaid, and child care assistance are administered by the Department of Human Services through county offices. |
| Missouri | Missouri’s Temporary Assistance (TA) program helps families with children, and the state offers General Relief for those unable to work due to a documented disability, with small cash payments. Applicants must prove citizenship/eligible‑immigrant status, income below program standards, and cooperate with child support and work activities. SNAP and MO HealthNet (Medicaid) are handled through the Family Support Division. |
| Montana | Montana’s TANF cash assistance serves families with children, and the state provides General Assistance to disabled adults without dependents who are not receiving SSI. Citizenship or qualified alien status, income/resource limits, and medical proof of disability are mandatory. SNAP, Medicaid, and employment training are coordinated by the Department of Public Health and Human Services. |
| Nebraska | Nebraska’s Aid to Dependent Children (ADC) provides cash to families, while General Assistance is available for very poor adults without children who are unable to work due to medical reasons. Applicants must meet citizenship/eligible‑immigration criteria, income limits, and asset tests. SNAP, Medicaid, and social services are accessed through the ACCESSNebraska portal. |
| Nevada | Nevada’s TANF provides cash aid to families with children, and the state offers General Assistance for disabled, low‑income individuals who are ineligible for federal aid. US citizenship or qualified non‑citizen status, income/resource verification, and a disability determination from a licensed physician are required. SNAP, Medicaid, and energy assistance are managed by the Division of Welfare and Supportive Services. |
| New Hampshire | New Hampshire’s FANF (TANF) gives cash assistance to families with minor children, and the state also administers State Supplemental Aid for elderly and disabled individuals who qualify for SSI. Eligibility demands citizenship or legal residency, income and asset limits, and compliance with work program requirements. SNAP and Medicaid are accessed through NH Easy. |
| New Jersey | New Jersey’s WFNJ provides cash benefits to families, and General Assistance (GA) is available for adults without children who are unemployable due to disability or are in crisis. Applicants must be US citizens or qualified aliens, meet income and resource standards, and submit medical documentation for disability claims. SNAP and NJ FamilyCare (Medicaid) are administered through county Boards of Social Services. |
| New Mexico | New Mexico’s TANF cash assistance helps families with children, and the state’s General Assistance program offers minimal aid to indigent adults without dependents who are unable to work due to medical reasons. Eligibility requires US citizenship or eligible immigration status, income and asset caps, and a certified medical statement. SNAP and Medicaid are accessed through the Human Services Department’s YESNM portal. |
| New York | New York’s TANF (Family Assistance) and Safety Net Assistance provide cash aid to families, single adults, and childless couples. US citizenship or satisfactory immigration status, income/resource limits, and work compliance are required; Safety Net Assistance may be paid partly in cash and partly in vendor vouchers. SNAP, Medicaid, and HEAP are all managed through local social services districts. |
| North Carolina | North Carolina’s Work First (TANF) offers cash to families with children, while the state’s General Assistance program that once aided disabled childless adults was eliminated; some counties may offer limited emergency relief. Applicants must be US citizens or qualified aliens with very low income. SNAP, Medicaid, and other supports are administered through county DSS offices and the ePASS portal. |
| North Dakota | North Dakota’s TANF provides cash to families with minor children, and the state offers General Assistance for adults who are unemployable due to a disability and meet strict income/resource criteria. US citizenship or eligible immigration status is required, along with medical proof of inability to work. SNAP, Medicaid, and LIHEAP are all accessible through the Department of Human Services. |
| Ohio | Ohio’s Ohio Works First (TANF) gives cash to families with children, and General Assistance is provided through the Ohio Works First Disability program for adults without children who have a verified physical or mental impairment. Citizenship/qualified‑non‑citizen status and income/asset tests apply. SNAP, Medicaid, and job readiness are managed by county Job and Family Services offices. |
| Oklahoma | Oklahoma’s TANF cash assistance supports families, and the state’s General Assistance program was phased out; however, some Tribal nations offer their own general relief programs for citizens. Eligibility for state aid requires US citizenship or lawful permanent residence and income below DHS thresholds. SNAP, SoonerCare (Medicaid), and child care subsidies are administered by OKDHS. |
| Oregon | Oregon’s TANF gives cash to families with children, and the state’s General Assistance program provides small grants to disabled, childless adults facing homelessness; GA is funded by county funds and has limited capacity. Applicants must be US citizens or lawful residents, meet income and disability tests. SNAP, Oregon Health Plan (Medicaid), and domestic violence assistance are coordinated through DHS. |
| Pennsylvania | Pennsylvania’s TANF cash assistance serves families with dependent children, and General Assistance (GA) was largely eliminated; however, small emergency cash grants may be available to individuals with a verified disability or veteran status through local assistance offices. US citizenship/eligible‑immigrant status and income/resource limits apply. SNAP, Medical Assistance, and LIHEAP are accessed via the COMPASS portal. |
| Rhode Island | Rhode Island Works (TANF) provides cash to families, and the state also offers General Public Assistance (GPA) for adults without children who are disabled and waiting for SSI approval. Citizenship or eligible immigration status, income below program limits, and medical documentation of disability are required. SNAP and RIte Care (Medicaid) are administered through the Department of Human Services. |
| South Carolina | South Carolina’s Family Independence (TANF) program aids families with children, and the state does not have a statewide General Assistance program for childless adults; emergency financial aid may be available through DSS in severe hardship cases. Applicants must be US citizens or qualified aliens, meet income and work rules. SNAP and Healthy Connections (Medicaid) are accessed through the SC Gateway portal. |
| South Dakota | South Dakota’s TANF cash assistance helps families with children, and the state offers General Assistance for elderly and disabled adults with very limited income who are not eligible for SSI. US citizenship or lawful permanent residence and income/asset tests apply. SNAP, Medicaid, and child care assistance are managed by the Department of Social Services. |
| Tennessee | Tennessee’s Families First (TANF) gives cash to families with minor children, and the state eliminated General Assistance for able‑bodied adults; disability‑based aid may come through the Supplemental Security Income program or emergency community funds. Eligibility requires US citizenship or qualified immigrant status and income below DHS standards. SNAP and TennCare (Medicaid) are integrated into the One DHS system. |
| Texas | Texas’s TANF cash assistance aids families with children, and the state discontinued General Assistance for non‑disabled adults; only state‑funded cash for certain disabled individuals may exist through the HHSC. Applicants must be US citizens or eligible non‑citizens, meet resource and income limits, and cooperate with employment programs. SNAP, Medicaid, and TANF are accessible through the Your Texas Benefits portal. |
| Utah | Utah’s Family Employment Program (TANF) provides cash to families, and the state’s General Assistance offers minimal aid to childless adults who are unemployable due to a certified disability and are not receiving SSI. Citizenship/eligible‑immigrant status, income/resource limits, and medical verification are required. SNAP, Medicaid, and energy assistance are managed by the Department of Workforce Services. |
| Vermont | Vermont’s Reach Up (TANF) delivers cash and support services to families with children, while General Assistance (GA) is administered by local districts for individuals and families in emergency need, often providing one‑time help with basic necessities. Applicants must be Vermont residents, US citizens or lawful residents, and meet income/need standards. SNAP (3SquaresVT) and Dr. Dynasaur/Medicaid are accessed through the same DCF network. |
| Virginia | Virginia’s TANF cash assistance serves families with children, and the state also offers General Relief (GR) for indigent adults who are disabled and cannot work, with small monthly payments. US citizenship or qualified alien status, income/resource limits, and a physician’s certification of disability are required. SNAP, Medicaid, and energy help are managed by local Departments of Social Services through CommonHelp. |
| Washington | Washington’s WorkFirst/TANF provides cash to families, and the state offers Aged, Blind, or Disabled (ABD) cash assistance for childless adults who are unemployable due to a physical or mental impairment and meet income/resource rules. Citizenship or eligible immigration status and medical evidence are required. SNAP (Basic Food) and Apple Health (Medicaid) are accessed through the Washington Connection portal. |
| West Virginia | West Virginia WORKS (TANF) gives cash to families with children, and the state operates a General Assistance program for disabled individuals without dependents who are awaiting SSI determination or have a temporary disability. Applicants must be US citizens or qualified non‑citizens, meet income tests, and provide medical documentation. SNAP, WV Medicaid, and workforce services are coordinated by DHHR. |
| Wisconsin | Wisconsin’s W‑2 (Wisconsin Works) provides employment‑focused aid for families; the state also offers General Assistance (GA) through some counties for very low‑income adults without children who are disabled or in crisis, though GA is limited and not available statewide. All programs require US citizenship or qualifying immigration status, income verification, and compliance with work or treatment plans. SNAP (FoodShare) and BadgerCare Plus are accessed through the ACCESS portal. |
| Wyoming | Wyoming’s POWER (TANF) provides cash to families with children, and the state’s General Assistance program offers limited aid to aged, blind, or disabled adults who are not receiving SSI. Eligibility requires US citizenship or lawful permanent residence, low income/assets, and medical certification of disability. SNAP, Medicaid, and child support services are administered by the Department of Family Services. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who Qualifies for Welfare in Louisiana?
You qualify for welfare if you meet eligibility criteria, and you’ll navigate the application process, which requires proof of income, residency, and citizenship to determine your eligibility for benefits.
How Can I Get Money if I’m Struggling?
You can access emergency funds or reach out to local charities for support, they’ll help you get back on your feet when you’re struggling financially, don’t hesitate to ask.
What Is the Highest Income to Qualify for SNAP in Louisiana?
You’re steering through financial storms, and SNAP’s a lifeline; the highest income to qualify in Louisiana is roughly $4,632 monthly for a family of four, based on SNAP eligibility criteria and Louisiana income limits.
How Do I Get Financial Assistance in Louisiana?
You can get financial aid by exploring assistance resources, such as government programs, and applying online or in-person to receive the help you need.
Conclusion
You’ve taken the first step towards a brighter future by exploring the Louisiana Assistance Program. As you begin this journey, keep in mind that a thread of hope can weave a safety net – don’t let it unravel. Stay informed, and you’ll find that assistance is within reach, empowering you to rise above adversity and build a more stable life.