Many Americans are just a few paychecks or one big setback away from homelessness. And when that happens, it is a devastating blow. Especially if you’re a single parent. But that’s just what happened when Donna, a 34-year-old single mother, lost her job. Suddenly facing homelessness with a frightened 13-year-old daughter, Jessica turned to the place that offers help and hope: The Salvation Army. Donna and her daughter found a warm welcome as they walked through our doors. They were greeted with love and encouragement, and it wasn’t long before she knew everything would be okay.
Donna entered the Job Readiness Program, determined to work hard and do whatever it took to get back on her feet and build a better future. When she completed the program, Jessica found a new job within just a few weeks. Donna took giant steps forward. She moved from our shelter into our transitional housing program. She enrolled in our My Home Program, which helps homeless women, children, and families transition into permanent housing — and helps them break the cycle of homelessness and poverty by encouraging career development and educational advancement, among other things. To help prevent second generation poverty, the My Home Program also assists with the costs of childcare, after-school care, Pre-K classes, and extracurricular activities.
Donna and her daughter soon secured a place of their own. Additionally, while maintaining a steady income, Donna also reached out to us about further career development. Donna received a scholarship and enrolled in — and completed — our new Vision Care Program. Newly qualified and excited for her future, Jessica got a job at a local medical facility that specializes in eye care. Today, Donna and her daughter have every reason to face the future with hope and confidence.
About The Salvation Army
The Salvation Army annually helps nearly 23 million Americans overcome poverty, addiction, and economic hardships through a range of social services. By providing food for the hungry, emergency relief for disaster survivors, rehabilitation for those suffering from drug and alcohol abuse, and clothing and shelter for people in need, The Salvation Army is doing the most good at 7,600 centers of operation around the country. In the first-ever listing of “America’s Favorite Charities” by The Chronicle of Philanthropy, The Salvation Army ranked as the country’s largest privately funded, direct-service nonprofit. For more information, visit SalvationArmyUSA.org.