Give Hope For The Holidays
As the holiday season approaches, we are reminded of the warmth and hope that comes with times of celebration and togetherness, spent in the comfort of our homes. But for those in our community who are housing insecure, this time of year can often feel overwhelming and uncertain.
YWCA is on a mission to change that.
We cannot do it alone.
Every day, we work to give women and families a home for the holidays - and hope for the future. Families like Sierra's.
Sierra found out she was pregnant in 9th grade. Her school counselors were working to fast-track her studies so she could earn her diploma when a family member pulled her out of school, saying "statistics" showed she wasn't going to make it anyways.
As she adapted to life as a young mother, Sierra and her son lived with her grandmother. Times were challenging, but they managed.
Until last summer, when they were evicted.
For a while, Sierra found stability staying with a friend. She had a reliable babysitter and was able to work full-time. But a car accident changed everything. She lost her job and her ability to afford childcare. By March, she and her son found themselves without a place to call home.
Then, in August, Sierra was introduced to YWCA and her new case manager, Maria.
Maria quickly recognized that Sierra's little boy was about to turn 6 and needed to be enrolled in school. She worked alongside Sierra, securing placement and arranged for transportation so he could attend school, even while they lived in emergency housing. With the little boy cared for, Maria focused on Sierra, helping her enroll in GED classes so she could build a stronger future.
Sierra now has a clear plan: she's studying for her GED and plans to pursue a cosmetology certification. Her hope is to move into a stable home with her son by the start of the new year. And with YWCA's support, this dream is closer than ever.
This holiday season, your gift can give families like Sierra's a fresh start.
Help us continue empowering women and families, offering them safe housing and a path forward.
When you give to YWCA, you are giving more than just a place to stay. You are giving hope. You are ensuring that women and families in need have the chance to heal, rebuild, and find a brighter future.
Looking to make an ongoing impact? Join The Persimmon, our monthly giving program, to provide steady support that empowers families like Sierra's to build brighter futures all year long. Your commitment, whether $10, $25 or more each month, creates lasting change and helps hope find a home.