2024 was another record-breaking year at Love Columbia. We enrolled 2,898 adults in our programs and handled 3,984 requests from the community. Our online information library received 251,286 views. Read our full 2024 Services Provided Report:

What’s the story behind so many people seeking help? The housing crisis across our nation worsened in 2024. HUD reported an 18% increase in U.S. homelessness, which followed a 12% increase in 2023. In Columbia, rent continued to rise and rental vacancies remained slim.

Despite this bleak landscape, we helped 443 households secure permanent housing and prevented 786 evictions.

One of the stories behind these numbers is Angeline, who had been homeless for 13 years when she enrolled in our Path Forward supportive services and Side by Side housing coaching programs. She tells her heartwarming story of securing a home in this short video:

Economic Pressure Prompting More to Seek Financial Coaching



In 2024, Love Columbia provided financial coaching to 1,339 people. Of this number, 104 went beyond budget and credit coaching to enroll in our 16-week Extra Mile program where trained volunteer coaches offer education, accountability, support and the opportunity to practice new skills.

One story behind these numbers is Latamera, a hard-working single mom who raised her credit score 100 points. She and her coach tell the story in this short video:

Housing Instability Increases Need for The Love Seat's Services



In 2024, The Love Seat Furniture Bank provided furniture to 196 households, a 31% increase from 2023. Many of these households were transitioning from homelessness and needed everything to furnish their homes. As a result, 149 households also received boxes of housewares, and 150 received store shopping vouchers for clothing and other essential items.

One story behind the numbers is the life change that takes place for some Love Seat staff who need a supportive environment to establish themselves in the workforce.

Aaron, age 39, found support for his recovery journey and a new family through his employment at The Love Seat. He says it is the only job he has ever had where he always looks forward to coming to work. “I’ve been there over two years, and every day is different. There are always new people to meet and a variety of tasks to accomplish. Usually, I’m out on the truck, picking up or delivering furniture, but I may also accept donations at the store or do whatever is needed. It is never boring.”

In addition to enjoying the work, “The Love Seat has become my family. The staff and volunteers are moms, brothers, sisters, aunts, and uncles to me,” he shared. Aaron particularly points to Sherri Hockett, long-time General Manager, whom he says has extended incredible patience through his ups and downs. “She believed in me and showed me my value as a person. She and others walked beside me, encouraged me, and provided the accountability I needed.” While working at The Love Seat, Aaron participated in our Extra Mile financial coaching program and Good Dads educational support group.

Aaron credits The Love Seat staff and support he received through Love Columbia with giving him the confidence to believe he could do more with his life. Next month he will start a 20-week program at Grand River Welding Institute to become a pipe fitter. Though it will be hard to leave The Love Seat, he is ready for the challenge. Aaron looks forward to furthering his career and being able to provide more for his nine-year-old son. “The Love Seat will always be my family and the place that turned my life around,” Aaron shared.

VITA is Back!



Twenty volunteers stand ready to work with tax preparation clients every Friday beginning February 14 through April 11. Each volunteer has taken a three- day training through Volunteers in Tax Assistance to make sure they are updated on the latest tax regulations. In 2024, our volunteers submitted 154 successful tax return filings. To sign up for free tax preparation, contact Ashlin at (573) 256-7662 Extension 142.

You will be greeted with care and concern to get everything done right. Last year, one of our volunteers learned his tax client had a leaky roof and mobilized a team to fix it. Taxes are prepared with loving concern for you and your situation!

RentWell - Become an informed and preferred renter through a five-part class. Join our RentWell team Thursday afternoons at Love Columbia (1209 E Walnut) from 3:00-4:00 PM.

Topics include: How to apply for a rental home? Can I afford it? Where can I find a rental? Where can I get legal help if needed? As well as information on maintenance, safety, communication, who’s responsible and more.

For more information or to enroll in RentWell, email coaching@lovecolumbia.org and mention that you are interested in the RentWell class.

First Time Homebuyer Class - The First Time Homebuyer Program at Love Columbia is a comprehensive course that covers topics such as the home buying process, financing options, credit management, and post-purchase concerns. The course is designed to equip first-time homebuyers with the knowledge and tools they need to make informed decisions throughout the home buying process. The in-person class is offered six times a year, join us at our next one Saturday, March 15. One-on-one coaching sessions are also available.

Workshop Fee: $100. Income-based scholarships may be available. To be eligible for HUD first time home buyer benefits, individuals must attend a HUD first time homebuyer class taught by a certified HUD agency. Come learn more about the homebuying process from local real estate agents, lenders, and other homeownership experts.

For more information, call Love Columbia at 573-256-7662 and press option 5 to register or email homebuyer@lovecolumbia.org.

Loops of Love - Looking to make new friends and learn a new hobby? Join us every second and fourth Thursday of the month from 12:00 - 1:00 PM, at the Love Columbia Center (1209 E Walnut St) for a fun and relaxing crochet and knitting session, all levels welcome! Our next meeting is February 13. For questions, email: Ashlin at ashlinm@lovecolumbia.org.

Growth Mindset - Join us Thursdays, starting February 6, at 5:15 PM at Love Columbia to learn how to persist through setbacks and see challenges as opportunities for growth. Class topics include: growing with emotional intelligence, mastering communication through mindset, transforming roadblocks into opportunities and overcoming obstacles to reach your dreams. There is no cost to attend, and you can start any week!