Angelica, her husband, and their 5 children were referred to Families In Transition while experiencing homelessness. After surviving Domestic Violence, Angelica was remarried and her family was struggling financially due to their outstanding debt. Her husband had seasonal employment in agriculture and his immigration process to obtain residency was pending. Once referred to FIT, a thorough assessment of the family's strengths and barriers was followed by a goal plan which would include Angelica's primary goal; to pursue an education so she could be a role model for her children. However, she felt that it would never be possible because they both lived paycheck to paycheck in order to pay off their debt. The family was offered 12 months of transitional housing, where the family goals were clearly established. Debt reduction and Angelica's college attendance would be the main focus. Her husband would be the sole provider while Angelica attended school She decided to pursue an education in Human Services and was eligible for financial assistance with Cabrillo College. Despite some language barriers, Angelica excelled in school. With her husband's support, her self esteem grew and their family began to thrive. The stability that their housing provided gave the family hope for a better future. Soon after moving into their new home, Angelica's husband obtained year round employment at a local nursery. The family's debt began to decrease and their credit score began to improve. Soon after acquiring a Section 8 voucher and finding permanent housing, Angelica's husband obtained his legal residency. With the family's history of church involvement, Angelica was presented with a volunteer opportunity. This position helped her gain employment experience, and eventually Angelica was offered a Program Coordinator position. In spring of 2020, Angelica received her Human Services Certificate, and will be graduating with an Associates Degree in Human Services in Spring of 2021. She plans to transfer to CSUMB to continue her education in social services. To date, the family remains housed, both adults are employed full-time, and Angelica's husband is pursuing his GED in 2021. Most recently, Angelica became a member of Families In Transition's Board of Directors.
