For many families, financial hardship begins not with poor choices but with one unexpected event. It could be an illness, job loss, or a rising utility bill. Cornerstone Community Action Agency exists to help them regain stability and move toward independence.
“Our mission is a community in action, empowering people and changing lives, offering hope to achieve self-sufficiency,” says Todd Leibham, Cornerstone’s director of development. “We’re not just a Band-Aid or just a handout. We approach each case by asking, ‘What is the problem, and how do we move forward?’”
Cornerstone has expanded its presence in Parker County over the past six years and now serves eleven Texas counties. Its Head Start and Early Head Start programs support expectant mothers as well as children through age five by providing education, meals, and assistance with medical and dental care. The agency also offers free income tax preparation for qualifying households, volunteer opportunities for seniors, services for veterans, and financial management through its representative payee program.
This crucial support recently assisted a veteran who had been living in his car. Cornerstone staff spent several weeks locating stable housing and connected him with a landlord who waived the deposit, allowing him to sign a lease and move into a home.
During this season of gratitude, Leibham is especially thankful for Cornerstone’s approximately 130 employees, along with its generous volunteers, community partners, and clients.
“Nobody is thrilled to come up and say, ‘I need help,’” he says. “The fact that these people trust us, and we work so hard to get them where they need to be, is really where my gratitude is.”
As costs rise faster than available funding, Cornerstone welcomes financial contributions and volunteers. Leibham also hopes more Parker County residents will learn about the agency and share its mission. Every connection can help people and change lives.
To donate, volunteer, or learn more, visit cornerstonecaa.org.