When you first meet Deborah, Michael and Michael Jr. you're immediately struck by a sense of kindness and humility and you can't forget their wonderful sense of humor. When you scratch under the surface, you find a family that's overcome big, life changing obstacles yet continues to be a forward driven family. They started participating in Uplift a little over a year ago. At that time they were homeless. They lived in their car, stayed at hotels or slept on the couch of friends or family members.
"Uplift has been a huge support system for my family this past year. Instead of feeling like we were alone during this difficult time in our lives we felt like we belonged to a community of people that felt more like our family," said Deborah.
With the assistance of Elk Grove H.A.R.T. their family was able to find housing but there were still obstacles to overcome. "I didn't realize that going through homelessness had caused so much trauma. When you are homeless you feel very isolated from society. Uplift has helped me go through the process of trauma and made us feel like we mattered. I have gained a sense of belonging," said Deborah.
With much hard work, soul searching and the support of their new community, the family graduated from the Educational Phase in August 2019. When Michael was asked what he has gained so far from Uplift, he said, "I've developed networking skills and connections. Uplift has challenged my thinking, my outlook, and help me use goal setting strategies. I'm surrounded by good people that offer support and are as interested in my general success as I am." And if you ask six-year-old Michael Jr. what he likes about Uplift he'll tell you, he likes the time he spends doing activities with Norma and Mark (our childcare providers) and the opportunity to play with other children in the program.
Their family has made some tremendous steps forward, including a new and better job for Deborah, a second vehicle which has helped with transportation for a two income earning family, and connection to a faith based community. They've also made strides in paying off debt and planning for long term goals.
Unfortunately their family has been affected by the COVID-19 outbreak. Michael was laid off from his job in the restaurant industry. With the loss of the second income the family is now concerned about keeping a roof over their head, paying the bills and keeping food on the table. Uplift has been able to connect their family with resources to remain stable during this time of instability.
"We are so thankful for the financial and emotional support that Uplift has continued to provide for our family," said Deborah. "Support within our community is more important than I realized," said Michael. We will continue to walk alongside Deborah, Michael and Michael Jr. as they navigate through the ups and downs of what life throws in their path.