25 Years and Beyond: A Mother’s Journey
September 2015
A Mother’s Journey in the Family Self-Sufficiency Program
Partners in Housing quite possibly saved my life, and definitely my sanity!
I was working at a big box retail store part-time as a greeter, going to school part-time. In January 2012, I found out I was pregnant with my very first child; after being told I would never have children, at the age of 32. In March that year, I could no longer work on my feet, and had to quit my job. I had a little saved up, and my mom helped me a little as well. It quickly depleted.
In early July, I had my daughter early, at only 24 weeks, due to Pre-Eclampsia. She spent 132 days in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. I spent every day and every night by her side. I still could not work; I had lingering health issues and would not leave her side. September that year brought an eviction notice for unpaid rent. My daughter was still in the NICU and I felt so overwhelmed.
Cross Agency Collaboration
I called 2-1-1, Pikes Peak United Way, and they gave me information about Partners in Housing. I called Partners in Housing, desperate for some glimmer of hope. I could not bring my daughter home from the hospital to nothing. I applied, did the intake interview, and waited. I cried. I prayed. I begged. Finally, I got the call that I was accepted!
October, I moved into Colorado House, and in November, I brought my daughter home. Lily was on oxygen when she came home, and plenty of medications. As a preemie, she could not be in daycare. So, I threw myself into an online school, while being able to be there for her special needs. I attended the Life Skills classes regularly, fully utilizing the program for what I could. After a year and a half, we were ready to be self-sufficient.
Moving Forward
Lily was off her medications, off the oxygen, and doing phenomenal. I found an apartment and a full-time job. I am still in school, and Lily is in daycare while I work. Life is good. At the beginning of July, Lily turned 3 years old. You’d never be able to tell she was a mere 1lb 4oz when she was born. She has no delays and only minor health issues.
I attribute her success, at least partially, to Partners in Housing. I do not know where we would have been if I did not have them there. I was able to nurture and stay with her during the most critical time. Best of all, we had a home. Partners in Housing taught me how to be on my own, and how to manage life as a single mom. I made a ton of connections and friends along the way. I will never forget the kindness shown to us.
Thank you, Partners in Housing staff at the Colorado House! You made a difference in our lives!
