CBS 19 - The Eye of East Texas News - PATH Meets Financial Goal

PATH Meets Financial Goal

By Anthony Austin

"They've given me a fan for the heat, I mean, without them, God, I don't know what I would have done," Travis Jenkins told CBS 19.

Life hasn't been easy for Travis Jenkins. The 58-year-old suffers from the symptoms of Colon Cancer and Hepatitis daily.

"They just lift me back up, spiritually really," explained Jenkins.

Jenkins said PATH has been there to help him with his growing needs.

"Couch, bed, well, they furnished my whole house," Jenkins said.

The Hurricane Katrina evacuee sought refuge in Tyler, and hope from the staff at PATH.

"Organizations like this here keep people from stealing from each other, robbing each other," Jenkins commented.

In June, the non-profit found themselves in need of help from the same community they serve. They had only one month left of operating funds.

"As of today, all the programs we offer will continue to be served," announced Christina Fulsom, PATH Executive Director, at a Press Conference. 

Two hundred thousand dollars was donated to the organization in just two weeks. It's a donation that's the size of some of their 1,000 new clients' former salaries.

"They find themselves at PATH's door because they don't have enough to pay their mortgage," said Fulsom. 

While the money has come in, PATH's future is still not secure. That worries folks like Jenkins, who need help to make ends meet.

"If you can help, please for God sake help," pleaded Jenkins.

PATH is helping Jenkins find employment. When he gets his first paycheck, he plans on helping the same people that helped him.

"I don't care if it's a dollar a month, what I have I will give it to them," said Jenkins.

Most non-profits operate on a three month budget.   PATH's monthly budget is $115,000.

To donate to PATH, Call (903) 597-4044, or log on www.tylerpath.org