ORLANDO  | Adrian and Mary Ann Zaccardi are not used to asking for help. After an unfortunate series of events, the elderly couple turned to Catholic Charities of Central Florida and the team came to their rescue.

It started in September when their car needed some unexpected repairs. Then it broke down again, leaving them stranded for doctor appointments and other errands.

The Zaccardis needed transportation, so they fixed the car, but that stretched their limited income far too tightly. Stressed at the prospect of losing electricity, water, and possibly their home, they reached out to Catholic Charities’ Family Stability Program.

The organization helped the couple apply for an Orange County Community Development Block Grant for case management and housing stabilization services as part of its homelessness prevention program. The objective of the program is to assist low- to moderate-income individuals and remove barriers to stability.

“It was a smooth, rapid and efficient process,” Adrian said.

Mary Ann wrote to the agency saying, “Heartfelt gratitude for our utility bill (electric) paid fully… The feeling of stress and anxiety was relieved after the bill was paid. We can breathe better, sleep better and find the enjoyment of life, at last.”

If you are in need of assistance, visit https://cflcc.org or call 407-658-1818.

By Glenda Meekins of the Florida Catholic staff, November 6, 2025