Success Stories

In the vast expanse of rural Alaska, where communities are often only accessible by air, Debbie faced an unimaginable series of challenges. Her story is one of resilience, showcasing how support and resources can make a crucial difference in a widow's life.

After 46 years of marriage, Barbara found herself facing an unexpected challenge following her husband's passing. Despite feeling financially secure with a paid-off home, zero debt, and a steady monthly income, Barbara encountered a startling obstacle: she was being denied access to her late husband's retirement accounts.

When Karen reached out to Wings for Widows in February, her world had crumbled. Just three months earlier, she had lost her husband—her partner in life and in caring for their daughter with disabilities. For years, Karen had put her own aspirations on hold, dedicating herself to her family's needs. With her daughter off to college, Karen had finally seen a glimmer of hope to pursue her PhD and return to work.

Linda lost Greg on December 20, 2018. A year earlier he had received an inheritance of $63,000. Linda wasn’t sure what Greg had done with the inheritance, but she sure could use it now. Her meager income put her just above the Federal Poverty level, which meant she didn’t qualify for much-needed assistance. Due to her significant health issues, Linda could not work and even short trips to the store or to church took their toll on her. Since Greg’s death, she had more bad days than good ones. 

Jo lost Kyle on April 19, 2018. A year later Jo discovered Wings for Widows and decided to reach out to see if they could help. While Jo had to contend with many of the things all widows manage through after the loss of a spouse, Jo had one big concern she needed help with most of all.

Karen and Fred were married for more than 60 years. He was 85 years old when he died unexpectedly. Fred was jovial, kind, and loved by his family, his church, and community. Fred was a character, with a personality bigger than life. He lived well, and Karen would agree, well beyond his means in his later years. He’d been a hard worker all his life. A good provider. But when he died on September 21, 2019, Karen found herself in chaos. The chaos of loss.