Juan's Story
With four children, Juan and Clara Gutierrez stretch Juan’s paycheck as a truck driver as far as possible. United Way’s help with filing their income tax return goes a long way.
“I trust United Way to do the best for me,” said Juan.
Tax volunteers helped Juan claim the earned income credit, a refund worth several thousand dollars. This year, $2,000 went right into savings bonds for Geraldo, 13, Nancy, 12, David, 6, and Diego, 5.
“When I was young, no one taught me to save,” said Juan, whose father left when he was 8-years-old. “I was raised dirt poor. Now, I’m very blessed.”
Juan is obviously proud of his family and his home in Monroe where they have lived for 11 years. Clara volunteers at the YMCA and works part-time at Everett Community College.
“We get by,” said Juan. “No matter if you earn only a little bit—save. For my family, that will put food on the table and a roof over their heads.”