
Mommy and Me: Back to School Fund
Donation protected
I am 32 years old. I have a 2 year old daughter. I have worked as a civil servant for much of my working life, and volunteered when I was too young to work. I have volunteered at several New Haven Public Schools, for several city events throughout the years, and at area community centers. Community services and supports for our youth and families has always been close to my heart.
When I had my daughter I realized that childcare, during my working hours, cost more than my rent.
All of a sudden, I could not keep up. I kept havin to ask for help from family and friends, and all of a sudden found myself living check to check, barely able to afford HEALTHY foods, even though I worked a 40 hour week. My health began to decline, I could barely keep on weight with the day to day stress of not knowing what the next week would bring. I felt as though I was being pressured into giving up my work in order to care for my daughter, and accepting help from the government. With a choice between that or ruining my professional reputation to then get fired and end up accepting help in the end. What could I do?
Well, I refused to give in so easily, the thought occured to me and I started applying for schools, and have decided to return to school.
The great news is, I have received a waiver for my tuition. Full FAFSA to pay for my books (hopefully enough) , and I will accept the student loans for housing upon arrival. I will be attending Indiana University of Pennsylvania for a Bachelors Degree in Child Development and Family Relations with a minor in Nutrition!
Now I just have to get there!!!
This fund would help with the actual relocation of Isabel, myself, a some of our belongings to the campus area.
We have found a lovely apartment, close to the school campus, and a reputable daycare right in the area. I am registered for classes this fall, and I am excited to have the chance to be a better provider for my family and someday soon for my community.
Thank you for taking the time to read this, any help towards my goals is appreciated.
When I had my daughter I realized that childcare, during my working hours, cost more than my rent.
All of a sudden, I could not keep up. I kept havin to ask for help from family and friends, and all of a sudden found myself living check to check, barely able to afford HEALTHY foods, even though I worked a 40 hour week. My health began to decline, I could barely keep on weight with the day to day stress of not knowing what the next week would bring. I felt as though I was being pressured into giving up my work in order to care for my daughter, and accepting help from the government. With a choice between that or ruining my professional reputation to then get fired and end up accepting help in the end. What could I do?
Well, I refused to give in so easily, the thought occured to me and I started applying for schools, and have decided to return to school.
The great news is, I have received a waiver for my tuition. Full FAFSA to pay for my books (hopefully enough) , and I will accept the student loans for housing upon arrival. I will be attending Indiana University of Pennsylvania for a Bachelors Degree in Child Development and Family Relations with a minor in Nutrition!
Now I just have to get there!!!
This fund would help with the actual relocation of Isabel, myself, a some of our belongings to the campus area.
We have found a lovely apartment, close to the school campus, and a reputable daycare right in the area. I am registered for classes this fall, and I am excited to have the chance to be a better provider for my family and someday soon for my community.
Thank you for taking the time to read this, any help towards my goals is appreciated.
Organizer
Abigail Rivera
Organizer
New Haven, CT