“You Don't Want to Answer Your Phone": Alexa’s Story of Debt, Hope, and Healing

Living in Silence

“You don’t want to answer your phone.”

That’s how Alexa described the emotional weight of living in debt. She kept her phone on silent to avoid collection calls, and she rarely spoke about her financial situation.

“You feel very unloved when you're struggling and you can't fix yourself. You're in a really dark place. It is a heavy burden.”

Debt didn’t just take a financial toll; it stole her joy, her rest, and her peace. She believed she had to carry it alone.

Like many Canadians, Alexa carried a financial burden she didn’t know how to talk about. The shame, the silence, and the fear of answering the phone all became part of her everyday life. Until friends at CAP stepped in.

Discovering CAP

Everything changed at a conference, when an announcement was made directed at folks struggling with debt that mentioned Christians Against Poverty by name.

Alexa reached out to CAP and was met with kindness, not judgment. Her Debt Coach helped her gather the paperwork, set a clear plan, and take one small step at a time.

“I literally was shocked. I honestly, I think I took a breath of fresh air for the first time 'cause it felt safe enough to share.”

Through CAP’s hope-filled church ministries, Debt Help and the Money Course, anyone needing financial relief can find the same type of support.

What Does Christians Against Poverty Do?

CAP Canada provides free, licensed credit counselling paired with personal coaching and church-based support. It's a model that cares for the whole person, not just the numbers on the page.

“The pace was walkable. I think with knowing my next steps, there was a peace that came… It was the breakthrough I was waiting for years for.”

Clients like Alexa receive a monthly statement showing their progress, and they always know exactly where they stand. With no interest added, every payment reduces the burden.

What Does Christians Against Poverty Help With?

Alexa’s situation is one of many that CAP supports: from sudden job loss to chronic financial instability, CAP Canada supports clients through:

• Free debt help through church partnerships,

• One-on-one budgeting tools and financial education, and

• Emotional and spiritual encouragement for those open to it

“There is such a renewed sense of purpose and joy for my life.”

From Client to Advocate

Alexa’s journey didn’t end with her final payment. In an unexpected turn, she was hired to work for CAP.

“I honestly was undone when a friend of mine said that CAP was looking to hire. To be able to work for CAP just blew my mind… I was like, I would love to be able to work for this team because it's literally changed my life. To be able to journey alongside people who are feeling that same weight of shame, that same hopelessness, to see how the Lord's already directing their steps the same way he directed mine, the same way he'll continue to direct others…”

A Final Word of Encouragement

Alexa’s story reminds us that debt doesn't define a person and that support makes all the difference. At Christians Against Poverty, we’re honoured to be part of the solution for those in financial crisis who find their way to a local Debt Centre. It’s a privilege to equip churches to minister to their communities in such a meaningful and transformative way.

Ready to Learn More?

If you’re wondering how to help, here are a next few steps:

🙏 Pray for CAP’s Debt and Money Coaches as they continue walking alongside people in financial crisis. 📩 If you’d like us to pray with you or for you, send your request to prayers@capcanada.org. 🔁 Or, share this post with someone who may be struggling; it could be the lifeline they’ve been waiting for.