San Diego parents are excited to help their children pick out new school supplies and make new friends. For homeless children the first day of school means something much simpler: a safe, stable haven away from the chaos of the street.
Blanca was one of those children. After her abusive mom passed away when she was nine years old, Blanca struggled to cope. She joined a gang at only 12 years old, bounced from one foster home to the next through her teen years and spent her twenties in an abusive relationship.
At 30 years old, Blanca found the courage to leave with three young children, numerous health problems and nowhere to go.
After more than a year on the streets, Blanca and her children came to Father Joe’s Villages.
With the support of our staff, Blanca accessed the medical and psychiatric care she needed. Her children participated in our therapy and mentoring programs which helped improve their emotional, mental and social wellbeing. Our case management team helped Blanca obtain a steady income. Blanca gained confidence that her family could achieve self-sufficiency.
Today, Blanca lives in one of Father Joe’s Villages’ affordable apartments where she provides her children with a safe and loving home to come back to each day after school.
This month, Blanca is bravely sharing her family’s story during our telethon on CBS 8. She wants to let the community know that when you donate to Father Joe’s Villages, you provide families like hers with the services and support they need to thrive. When you give, you change lives.
Yours in God’s service to our neighbors in need,
