No one anticipates finding themselves homeless and expecting a child. It’s certainly not a situation anyone wishes for, especially when considering the impact on the little ones involved. Yet, there I was, just a week post-emergency C-section, pleading with the local court to halt my eviction. Our roommate had relapsed after a year of sobriety and failed to pay his portion of the rent. I managed to gather his share shortly after, but the landlord refused to accept it, deciding instead to sell the house.
At that moment, I felt trapped and terrified, unaware of my rights. I sat on my couch, dazed from the pain medication and the overwhelming reality of my circumstances, focusing instead on the precious baby sleeping in the Pack ‘n Play next to me. It was then that my partner walked in.
“Jenna, I don’t know where we’ll go. Maybe we should move in with your parents?” he suggested.
Oh, how I wished it were that simple. My parents weren’t fond of him and wouldn’t allow him to stay with us; we’d be forced to separate, and even then, my daughter and I might have to find refuge in a shelter.
During this bleak period, a glimmer of hope emerged. The Washington State Department of Social and Health Services referred me to Courage 360 (previously Washington Women’s Employment) in Tacoma for their ReachPLUS job training program. This nonprofit focuses on helping individuals like me who find themselves in challenging situations, equipping us with the skills and confidence needed to rise above our circumstances. Their compassionate instructors provided more than just education; they instilled a sense of self-worth and encouraged us to leave behind the negativity that had held us back.
My classmates were also mothers facing homelessness. Courage 360 provided us with clothing and occasionally food, and through their WorkFirst program, they helped us secure jobs after completing the course. It was during this program that I discovered a career I truly loved.
Many people—friends, family, caseworkers—told me it was impossible. They urged me to abandon my dreams and dismissed my years of experience in public relations. But unlike those naysayers, Courage 360 consistently uplifted me, encouraging me to maintain my confidence and persevere.
Thanks to them, I was no longer numb. The memory of sitting there, staring blankly at the wall, still sends a chill down my spine. In those vulnerable moments, I considered giving up entirely, feeling hopeless. Yet, I realized I just needed someone to believe in me, and Courage 360 provided that support.
Fast forward a year, and my life has completely changed. I now enjoy a stable, fulfilling career, have secure housing, and am surrounded by family. However, I was devastated to learn this week that Courage 360 has closed its doors. It feels profoundly unfair that I’ve been able to thrive while they struggled to stay afloat, helping so many others craft their success stories. Why wasn’t there enough support for them? This realization has left me angry and confused.
Nearby, a local pet rescue has garnered immense support, creating viral videos showcasing their efforts to save homeless animals. While I believe wholeheartedly in their mission, it feels like society often prioritizes animals over people during critical times. Courage 360 saved not just my life, but my daughter’s as well, and they impacted countless other families in need.
I wish I could have done something to help them in return. We desperately need more nonprofits committed to uplifting those whom society often overlooks. But without adequate support, these organizations struggle to survive.
Today, my heart aches for Courage 360 and for all the nonprofits fighting to keep their doors open while striving to assist those with the least. I hope they understand the profound difference they make, even if they lack the resources necessary to continue their vital work.
In summary, Courage 360 played a pivotal role in my transformation from a state of despair to one of hope and stability. As I reflect on their closure, it reinforces the urgent need for community support for nonprofits that uplift vulnerable populations.
For more information on home insemination options, check out this resource. Additionally, Make a Mom offers valuable insights on home insemination kits, while UCSF’s Center provides excellent resources for pregnancy and home insemination.