How Kayla Broke The Cycle of Homelessness
Kayla’s arrival at FamilyAid marked a turning point in her life. At just 20 years old, she arrived with two young daughters–Maya, one, and Zoey, three–by her side. Having experienced a childhood filled with instability, Kayla was determined to leave our shelter as soon as possible and find a home that she and her daughters could call their own.
From an early stage, Barbara–Kayla’s FamilyAid case manager–realized that Kayla was struggling to keep her apartment neat and organized, especially after keeping up with Maya and Zoey during the day. Recognizing Kayla’s struggle to manage her young children, her household, her educational program and search for new housing, Barbara–armed with her own experiences as a young mother–was determined to help Kayla manage the many challenges before her.
Establishing a rapport based on empathy and understanding and her clinical training, Barbara guided Kayla while also building a larger support system for her.
Together, Barbara and Kayla embarked on a series of organizational, parenting and time management activities to help Kayla manage her young family’s needs. Barbara’s coaching was invaluable, as Kayla had not grown up in a stable home environment–she and her own mother lived in and out of shelters in numerous communities over the years. Until Barbara entered her life, Kayla never had a role model, coach and friend to support her. With Barbara’s help, Kayla’s sense of responsibility for her family grew, and she diligently implemented the parenting and organizing tips that Barbara imparted.
Acknowledging that financial stability played a pivotal role in Kayla’s journey, Barbara then delved into the realm of budgeting. Sitting down together, they meticulously reviewed Kayla’s bank statements, brainstormed strategies and devised a plan to allocate funds efficiently, enabling Kayla to achieve her saving goals. Through their collaboration, Kayla gained newfound confidence in managing her finances effectively.
Throughout her time with FamilyAid, Kayla found solace in Barbara’s unwavering support. Consistent meetings became a cornerstone of their relationship, with Barbara always showing up, ready to lend a helping hand. She understood that persistence and commitment were key to fostering lasting change.
One day, Kayla expressed a desire to follow in Barbara’s footsteps and become a social worker herself. Inspired by the profound impact Barbara had made on her life, Kayla enrolled in school and earned a certificate in Human Services. Barbara’s presence at her graduation ceremony reaffirmed the depth of their connection and the transformative power of their journey.
With newfound confidence and a desire to break free from the cycle of poverty, Kayla secured employment, moved out of the shelter and recently obtained her very own apartment. Bursting with pride, she extended an invitation to Barbara, eager show her mentor and teacher her new home.
Barbara’s ability to recognize the profound impact of external environments on the well-being of her clients played a vital role in Kayla’s transformation. Her personal lived experience growing up in a challenging neighborhood and becoming a mother at a young age allowed Barbara to connect with Kayla on a profound level. She understood the need to break through the limitations of circumstance and present Kayla with alternative paths toward a brighter future.
Kayla and Barbara’s story is a perfect example of how–with the right support system and guidance–we can all work together to uncover newfound strength and possibilities.
