Finding Financial Stability: Ysabel’s Story

Ysabel joined Just in Time for Foster Youth in 2017 when she learned about it through a research project at SDSU. Although she had a good relationship with money early on, a series of financial missteps, including an automobile accident,  left her in significant debt. She realized she needed more guidance. In 2023, she rejoined JIT’s Financial Fitness service.  

“I was good with money until the pandemic, then I spiraled out of control. It happened really quickly,” remembered Ysabel, “and being a former foster youth, I’ve never had a lot of money. When I got a lot of money at once, I made really bad choices.” 

Financial Fitness became a crucial resource for Ysabel during this challenging time. She worked closely with her coach to develop a plan to regain financial stability. One of her biggest accomplishments was paying off $8,000 in credit card debt—a huge relief as she worked through the shame and stress from her past decisions. 

Not only did Ysabel’s coach give financial guidance without judgment, she also found opportunities for Ysabel to make extra money to help pay the debt down faster. 

In Financial Fitness, Ysabel learned critical financial management skills that helped her begin rebuilding her financial footing. Now, Ysabel feels empowered to move forward with her life, confident that she will continue to make positive financial choices. 

“I’m grateful for the mentors that I’ve connected with at Just in Time. The knowledge they’ve shared, and the hope that they’ve instilled in me. Sometimes you just need a little bit of encouragement from someone else to reinforce that belief in yourself.”