On October 15, 2001, Pam’s life was put into a tail-spin by an automobile accident that ultimately cost her job, her home and her normal way of life. By April 2002, she and her two children were on the brink of homelessness.

She envisioned living in a homeless shelter. When she found out about SNAP, her landlord was ready to evict all three as they were three months behind in their rent.

SNAP immediately found them a new subsidized apartment with a room for each of her kids. Over the months that followed, Pam received many services from SNAP as she struggled through numerous painful surgeries.

SNAP was there for her and her children learned to cope with the changes in their lifestyles.

In December, 2005, Washington Governor Christine Gregoire paid a house call on Pam Roberts and her son and daughter. The news conference at the new Roberts home announced a new state funded approach to enhance SNAP’s energy assistance program.

The governor selected to have the press conference at her home because her story was consistent with those of so many Washington State families that were struggling to keep their homes warm during the cold winters.

Pam continues to struggle with pain, but she doesn’t have to worry about a place to live because SNAP was there at her time of need.

To read the Woman's Day story on Pam Roberts, click here.