When people are food secure, they have the strength to overcome life’s other challenges. Diana, a single mother of a non-verbal son, was sleeping on her friend’s couch after fleeing a domestic violence situation. When she first met with Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas’ case manager, Diana had no permanent housing, no income, no source of food, inconsistent transportation, and legal barriers. As Diana worked with a case manager to solve her housing situation, she applied for SNAP benefits. Receiving these benefits for her and her son relieved a large source of anxiety for Diana. Now, she is working part-time, pursuing her GED, has secured legal assistance, and was approved for Supplemental Security benefits for her son. In April, Diana and her son signed the lease on a new home! For Diana, the first sign of hope came with her SNAP benefits. Knowing that she and her son would not be hungry gave Diana the strength to overcome challenges and pursue her goals.
Empowering Refugee Youth Through Mentorship & Support
A Special to the Leaven Refugees arriving in the United States as teenagers face numerous challenges, from adjusting to a new education system and culture