I have been a single parent from conception to the present. My pregnancy was a result of rape and I did not have support from my family. I knew from early on that I had to earn enough money to make up for my 2 parents’ income.

It was shortly after my son was born I started to dive into researching for stay-at-home mothers. What careers could help me still raise my son and afford my own home and space? I wanted to start as a Public Notary signing agent.

During this time, my son and I were residing in the Rescue Mission emergency shelter in San Diego.

I would study on the floor with a flashlight while everyone was sleeping. I passed the Public Notary State exam but the next steps were to provide an address. I realized I had to put this opportunity on hold until I found my apartment.

I am working on completing an online course to earn money proofreading documents from court reporters. I realized I could not keep a job or daycare relocating from one county to the next within 3 months.

When I returned to Operation Hope for the third time, God finally sent me a message. One of the managers recommended an online course, I had no idea I could take online classes! I realized if I still moved around San Diego, I could take the work with me and continue.

I am still homeless, but my determination will not fade. I plan to obtain a certificate in bookkeeping and continue my education in accounting to earn a Bachelor’s degree. I would like to eventually start an online Bookkeeping company and help other single parents who are experiencing homelessness with an opportunity for remote work.

Congratulations to our well-deserved awardee!