Tashia's Story

My son and I moved into Hope House six months ago, when he was 15 months old. I had been living at the time with my mom. I had to leave my job and school to stay home with my son because I couldn’t fi­nd child care for him.

One day my mom told me about St. Ann’s. The church she attends has helped women and children living at St. Ann’s before. I was excited to learn about the program because I felt like I needed more direction. It was such a relief to know that my son would be taken care of in the Child Care Center while I worked during the day.

Ms. Swain’s classes [in the Education and Employment Program] have been really helpful. She has taught me a lot about budgeting and how to manage my savings. I have learned how much money I should be saving from my paycheck. Now I can save up for a car and apartment for my son and myself.

Since I moved into Hope House, I have been meeting weekly with Mr. Justin, the Employment Counselor. He has helped me to write my resume, ­find better jobs and ­fill out job applications. One day I would like to own my own business – maybe a clothing store. I would also like to help people in need.

I decided to return to my job at a restaurant while I work on my career goals. I used to work part-time, but now I am working for them full-time and the manager puts me on day shifts. If I ever have to work a night shift, my Hope House neighbor watches my son. I do the same for her when she has a night shift.

I love being a mom. I have always had a motherly instinct and just love taking care of my son and teaching him new things. We have so much fun. I hope that one day my son will be involved in his church and will help out in the community. I also hope that he will do well in school and be an athlete. I see so much in him.