Tad sought legal assistance from the Public Benefits Unit regarding a fraud investigation related to the Department of Social Services’ Subsidized Child Care program. As a result of the investigation, she faced a criminal sanction, a $1,000 fine, and owed a child care balance of $57,000.

Advocacy Center Paralegal Meeka Clark and Tad worked together to compile an exhibit list demonstrating that Tad had accurately reported her household information, despite DSS findings against her. In the final hearing, the ruling was reversed, removing the sanction and fraud charges, ultimately reinstating her children’s enrollment in the program.

From Tad’s own words:

“My name is Tad, and I want to share a heartfelt story about a journey I never expected to take. Last year, I found myself in a tough spot with Mecklenburg County Services, who informed me that I owed them more than $57,000. Apparently, my children’s father’s address was still associated with mine in the North Carolina state system—even though he hadn’t lived there for years. It was a devastating surprise.

As a single mother of three, I was already struggling—especially after recently losing my job. On top of that, I received a bill from Child Care Resources demanding repayment for assistance I had received while my kids were in day care. They insisted I owed the money due to my ex’s address being linked to mine. I felt completely overwhelmed, caught in a whirlwind of confusion and stress.

That’s when I reached out to the Charlotte Center for Legal Advocacy—and I hit the jackpot! I was connected with a true angel, Meeka Clark, from the Family Support and Health Care Program (FSHCP). Speaking with her was a breath of fresh air. She treated me like family, guiding me through the legal maze with warmth and compassion. Instead of judging me, she walked beside me every step of the way.

For nine months, Meeka was my rock, helping me navigate complex hearings and overwhelming paperwork. We spent countless hours on the phone, brainstorming solutions to secure my children’s future and maintain my mental well-being. No matter how tough things got, she never let me feel alone.

When my first hearing arrived, things didn’t go as planned. The hearing officer sided with Mecklenburg County, and my heart sank. But Meeka refused to let me give up. She immediately helped me file an appeal, digging deep to uncover my ex’s last known address and guiding me through every step of the process. I was terrified of losing my home and my children, but she reassured me that we would find a way.

Thanks to her relentless support and advocacy, my appeal was successful! Not only did I regain my child care assistance, but I also regained hope. Even when I encountered additional hurdles with the child care system, Meeka stood by my side, ensuring I received the help I needed.

This experience showed me that there are still caring people out there. I can’t thank the legal advocacy team enough—especially Meeka—for saving my life, my home, and my children. I will forever advocate for these services and share my story with anyone in need.

Thank you for allowing me to share my journey and thank you from the bottom of my heart for being there when I needed it the most!”