Stephanie - Emergency Family Shelter

When Stephanie moved to Memphis in 2006 from a small town in Mississippi, she had high hopes for the future. She was eager for the chance to provide the best life possible for herself and her daughter, Alicia.  Stephanie immediately found work at a local child care facility, and was able to provide a nurturing home for her daughter. Everything seemed to be under control, but it was merely the calm before the storm.

When the economy took a turn for the worse, Stephanie’s full-time job was reduced to a part-time position. To make matters more complicated, she was pregnant. With only half of her income, Stephanie could not afford to pay the bills and the family was quickly evicted.

Desperate to keep her children off the streets, Stephanie contacted MIFA, where she was provided with a list of shelters. The Salvation Army’s Emergency Family Shelter, a 90-day housing facility for women and children, was the perfect fit.

“I am just so grateful to the Emergency Family Shelter for the unconditional support during this time,” said Stephanie. “I was nervous about entering a shelter, but once I arrived and saw how genuine everyone was, I knew I was in the right place.”

Three months later, Stephanie is getting back on her feet. She has participated in financial workshops at The Emergency Family Shelter and has learned how to set realistic budgets. The Salvation Army also got her involved in programs such as Healthy Start, to provide proper prenatal care. She was able to work with nurses, nutritionists and social workers during her pregnancy.

Stephanie has also been referred to Agape, a Christian program that assists homeless, single women during their pregnancies and up to two years after the birth. Since being accepted into the program, Stephanie gave birth to a son, Corey. Stephanie and her children are currently in the process of moving into transitional housing.

Stephanie is continuing her work at the child care facility, but is also planning to return to school. She already has a degree in early childhood education from Coahoma Community College, but is anxious to continue in her pursuit of education.

“I was lost, but The Salvation Army helped me find direction,” said Stephanie. “Doors have continued to open and I am finally optimistic about my life and my children’s future again. The help was here, all I needed to do was ask.”