I was recently contacted by the local charter school regarding a single mother with 3 children (13, 11, and 3 years old) with asylum status, who was in desperate need of food for her family. I responded immediately and was able to secure food for them. Then was told of their very high risk of becoming homeless on January 8, 2022, because their housing assistance will end with no alternative housing options at this time. Homeless shelters require a social security number to be eligible, which means this family will have nowhere to go, but on the streets.

This mom and her family were victims of horrific, violent crimes in Honduras, which allowed her to seek asylum legally in the United States. For this reason,  I am being protective and  not sharing her identity. 

I reached out to her caseworker and was told;

"Asylum cases are quite complex and there really are no systems in place that can shift the family to self-sufficiency."

 I have also been in contact with other relief organizations and have continually been told;

As a result, caring people are trying their best to support this family, so the mom will  to be able to independently support herself and her family in the near future.

Eventhough this courageous family has been through so much, they have gained stability to feel safe, where they have been temporarily living. The 2 older children are in an amazing charter school that deeply cares about them and the well being of their family. The mom has diligently followed up on everything she needs to do for her family regarding housing, education and health care. She has also submitted her paperwork for a work permit and is anxiously waiting for a response. 

I truly believe all children are our children, from this place, I am leaning in to do what I can to help. I absolutely understand resources are limited, and it is with much gratitude, any contribution to support this family is greatly appreciated.

May God bless you and your family.

Thank you so very much,

Traci Gidwani, RN.