07/31/2012
Testimonial from a BRFTS/Team Hope mom about what the Hope Home Program has meant to her...
When I found Catholic Family & Child Service (CFCS) in the phone book, I was 4 months pregnant. I was sitting in a hotel room getting ready to check out. I was out of money and in need of resources. The hotel staff kept calling to tell me I needed to leave or I would be charged for another half day. The call to CFCS was the last of many geared towards finding resources. When I talked with the receptionist from CFCS, she asked me what resources I had (food, shelter, clothing, etc). I answered none. From there, I was connected to the Hope Home Program. When I started services in Hope Home I was five months pregnant. It was too late to join Bonding Right from the Start (BRFTS) so I started in Team Hope and completed BRFTS in September 2011.
In Team Hope, I was able to talk to other girls who were my age and in similar situations. I was finally able to understand that I wasn’t alone and that other people understood what I was going through. I was also able to see the outcome of my decisions by watching other teen moms. It was nice to be able to vent without being judged or ridiculed. With BRFTS it was like a birthing class but for free and with people my own age.
Since coming to CFCS, I’ve had my daughter. She is now one year old. Currently, I am taking accounting classes through Charter College to get my associates degree. I will double major in accounting and business and will graduate in October 2013.
Catholic Family & Child Service is more than just a resource. From day one, I’ve been treated like more than just a case file. I’ve created a bond and a friendship with individuals who work there. I am seen as someone they really want to help. Without the support of CFCS, I would have never had enough courage to go forth with pursuing a career path that I enjoy. For that I am truly thankful.