Earlier this year, I worked with a young first-time mom, Sara*, and her infant, Alex*. The father had been sent to drug rehab for heroin addiction. Sara and Alex were temporarily staying with friends with the expectation that she would move out once the Alex’s father was released from rehab. She had no friends other than the people she lives with, and although her family lived in a neighboring county, but they are not supportive as they have many issues of their own.
In addition to receiving services through Community Action, Sara was also connected into WorkSource, and was receiving some support from her case worker at DSHS. She eventually got a part-time job and Alex was enrolled into childcare program. Sara did not have a car so she walked all over town, pushing Alex in a stroller or used the bus for transportation.
I often still see her pushing Alex in the stroller all over town to appointments with case workers and to attend classes.
Despite multiple challenges, Sara was always on time for her appointments in the office and would follow through on any tasks or referrals. Melissa helped her fill out housing paperwork and got her on the waiting list for our agency’s family shelter. She was able to listen to her concerns and frustrations; Sara seemed to look forward to their visits, even though Melissa couldn’t solve all of her problems.
Melissa saw the couple in the office the other day, checking in about some shelter possibilities. Sara always has a smile for Melissa thought the stress of Sara and her boyfriend have not found permanent housing yet. In addition, Sara’s boyfriend has had a difficult time finding a job in this current economy. It is our hope that the connection Sara made during her visits to Community Action has given her hope and that she feels she has somewhere to go when she needs help or someone to listen.
*Names have been changed to maintain confidentiality.
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