Emily
October 2024
After overcoming numerous challenges in her early adult years, including teen pregnancy, addiction, and assaults, Emily grew stronger in her faith and family, thriving more than ever.
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Emily is a single mother of three children: an Army veteran, a local college student, and a grade schooler here in O’Fallon. She served as the director of children and family programs at a local church, and is the founder of both a women’s shelter and a crisis maternity home. Her desire to help others comes from having faced similar situations in her past, and she has consistently dedicated more time to others than to herself.
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In 2024, however, Emily was diagnosed with breast cancer. She underwent a double mastectomy and reconstructive surgery and is currently receiving ongoing treatment. In addition to her medical challenges, an unexpected fire at the women’s shelter has caused further setbacks. As a result, Emily has decided to take a break to focus on her physical and mental health before reopening the shelter and resuming her work. Unfortunately, due to these circumstances, she has fallen behind on various bills.
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After meeting Emily and hearing her story of compassion and resilience, O’Fallon Neighbors eagerly stepped in to support her on her road to recovery. We were able to pay down a significant portion of the debt she accumulated due to her surgeries and the months she was unable to work. Additionally, we made two mortgage payments on her behalf and provided groceries to help ease the burden of feeding her family during this difficult time.
Candace
January 2025
Candace Amesquita, her husband Jon, and their two children have faced extraordinary challenges with unyielding strength. But when the weight of financial and medical struggles became too much, their community stepped in to help.
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Jon, a devoted St. Louis City police officer, has spent the past nine years protecting and serving others. Working over 60 hours a week, he tirelessly provides for his family, ensuring stability despite immense hardships. His wife, Candace, has battled severe medical conditions, including Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, epilepsy, heart failure, and spinal complications, leading to 34 surgeries in just six years. She continues to fight for disability assistance while managing her deteriorating health.
The financial burden of medical care, household expenses, and raising two special-needs children had stretched them beyond their limits. They faced overwhelming costs for home repairs, accessibility modifications, and even basic necessities. But thanks to the generosity of O’Fallon Neighbors, the Amesquita family received critical financial relief—assistance with mortgage and utility bills, groceries and gas, and even a down payment for a much-needed motorized wheelchair.
Jon and Candace have always given their all for their family and community. Now, with a little support, they can breathe easier, focus on healing, and continue to move forward.