Finding Strength in New Beginnings: A Journey to Empowerment and Hope
Mission Moment | December 2024
Kris’s journey is a powerful story of empowerment and resilience. After years of uncertainty—moving between family and friends and battling anxiety—she found the strength to transform her life. With the support of community organizations like the YWCA, Kris not only secured a stable home at Monica Place but also discovered new ways to engage with others and give back to her community. By channeling her creativity into meaningful activities, she connected with those around her, turning personal challenges into opportunities for growth and connection. Kris’s story serves as a poignant reminder that with determination, support, and the courage to take bold steps, any woman can overcome obstacles and build a future filled with strength and possibility.
A Life in Transition to New Beginnings
Kris’s journey has been one of constant change, often living with family and friends due to financial struggles and the need to care for loved ones. For nearly 11 years, she lived with her grandparents, supporting her grandfather through cancer and later helping her grandmother recover from a series of surgeries. However, after years of providing care, Kris reached a crossroads. She realized that, to build a stable future for herself and her children, she needed a fresh start. Once her grandmother regained her health, Kris moved in with her mother for five years, before eventually finding stability at Coldwater House Women's and Children's Transitional Housing, followed by long-term housing at Monica Place through the YWCA.
While raising her youngest two children—her greatest joys—Kris also faced immense emotional challenges, particularly when her older children were placed with family during a tough period. Juggling motherhood and personal struggles, including her battle with anxiety and alcohol, was overwhelming. Yet, through it all, Kris never gave up hope. Despite the uncertainty, she believed that with the right support, she could find a way forward. And she did—gradually, with hard work and determination, Kris began building a stable life for herself and her children. Kris is proud to say she has been alcohol-free for two decades, a milestone that reflects her resilience and commitment to her family’s well-being. However, her anxiety has been a continued challenge, but Kris faces it with the same strength and determination she has shown throughout her journey.
The Power of Support
Among the most crucial parts of Kris’s recovery was the steadfast support from Rochelle, her Long-Term Case Manager at Monica Place. Rochelle didn’t push Kris; instead, she encouraged her, helping Kris discover her potential, one manageable step at a time. From simple tasks like taking the bus to Walmart, which allowed Kris to confront her anxiety and begin re-engaging with the world, to helping her manage daily challenges, Rochelle’s unwavering presence made all the difference.
With her case manager's guidance, Kris began prioritizing her health, attending doctor's appointments, and even addressing long-standing issues like an ADHD evaluation. These steps allowed her to better understand herself, which brought her newfound confidence and clarity.
“As case managers, we don’t push goals—we help people recognize their strengths, break down obstacles, and take control of their journey toward financial independence and long-term stability.”
A New Journey, One Cookie and Helping Hand at a Time
As Kris found more stability in her personal life, she felt compelled to give back to the community that had supported her. Her involvement in the Monica Place community garden marked the beginning of a new chapter, where she contributed by planting flowers and creating inspirational steppingstones. The simple act of giving back became a reminder of how far she had come.
Around this time, Kris discovered a passion for creative hobbies. Initially, rock painting offered a calming escape. But it was baking—something she started as a relaxing pastime—that eventually blossomed into a source of purpose and fulfillment. Through this creative outlet, Kris found both peace and a business opportunity, launching Blissfully Baked by Kris. What started as a hobby turned into a thriving small business, where she earned income and built meaningful connections with others in her community.
Her signature cookies became a hit, symbolizing not just her recovery but also her commitment to independence. The name "Blissfully Baked" reflects the joy Kris finds in both her personal life and her work. Baking has provided her with a therapeutic escape, helped her connect with others, and allowed her to contribute to her community. It has become a cornerstone of her journey toward independence.
Kris has also become a valued member of the Monica Place community, offering help to neighbors in need and contributing to events like Friendsgiving. When one neighbor struggled with a heavy package, Kris stepped in without hesitation. "It’s just what you do when you see someone struggling," she said, demonstrating the compassion that now defines her.
Love and Its Unwavering Power
While Kris found peace in her community involvement, she also faced a heartbreaking decision regarding her son’s well-being. When she noticed signs of anxiety in him, including withdrawal and less time spent outside, Kris worked with his school and mental health professionals. After much thought, she made the difficult choice to have him live with his father for a year. This decision, though painful, allowed Kris to focus on her own healing and better equip herself to support her son in the future. Despite the separation, Kris maintained a strong bond with him, and the decision, ultimately, was an act of love and self-awareness.
A Brighter Future Ahead
Throughout Kris’s journey, the support of those closest to her—especially her surviving grandmother and aunt—has been invaluable. Their encouragement, from providing rides to appointments to offering emotional support, has been instrumental in her transformation. Kris’s success is not just her own but a testament to the collective strength of her family and community.
By standing with women like Kris, we help them move toward self-sufficiency and success. Your support—whether through donations or simply showing up for those in need—creates brighter futures for women and children everywhere. Together, we can help more women find their way home.