KILLEEN, TX — Fallon Rufus was working at local bar and managing her own bartending business when the pandemic hit, changing everything.
“I’ve seen a tremendous decline in sales. It’s not because of marketing or anything like that, it’s simply because the economy has been shaken,” she said.
Out of a job for six months, Rufus was unable to get rental assistance or unemployment.
“I’m down with one arm. I’m trying my hardest. I’m not trying to give up but I need your help. To see that door is still shut in my face, it makes you want to give up,” said the Killeen woman.
She says she’s also a victim of domestic violence. To overcome it all, she’s been selling tacos and picking up other odd job, pushing herself to find ways to make ends meet to provide for her three children.
“Some days I didn’t get out of bed. Teesa laid in bed and I cried and said, 'God whatever you have for me, show me,'” said Rufus.
This week, the Innovation Black Chamber of Commerce along with the Black Inclusion Group and Village United gave $500 to Rufus and four other local families to help them in their time of need.
“With the pandemic going on and evictions happening and people without work, to get that $500 at a random time, we thought that was important,” said Angenet Wilkerson with the Innovation Black Chamber of Commerce.
It was just what Rufus needed.
“Gives me a little bit more hope that even though everything isn’t met now, I was still able to meet some things. Now I know to keep my faith and keep going,” she said.
The Innovation Black Chamber of Commerce says they're working with other families who applied for the $500 Gift of Love giveaway to help them find the support and resources they need.
