At Valley of the Sun United Way, we’re tackling our community’s most urgent needs and then partner with trusted organizations creating lasting change. By investing in programs that prevent first-time homelessness and support family stability, we ensure parents and children thrive.
One of those partners is Maggie’s Place, whose work helped rewrite the future for Desire’ and her son.
Desire’ always knew she wanted to be a mother. But in 2015, her life was changed forever.
After surviving a near-fatal accident that left her in an induced coma, Desire’ found herself pregnant while in a physically and emotionally abusive relationship. At the same time, she lost her job – placing her safety, stability, and future at risk.
“I was scared for myself every day,” Desire’ shared. “It felt like my whole world was crashing down.”
On the verge of homelessness, feeling completely alone, and determined to protect her child, Desire’ reached out for help. Through her local faith community, she was connected to Maggie’s Place, a Valley of the Sun United Way partner agency.
For more than 25 years, Maggie’s Place has supported pregnant women facing homelessness. Valley of the Sun United Way identifies partners such as Maggie’s Place to connect mothers to prenatal and postnatal healthcare, job training, crisis support, and essential baby supplies, all while fostering a strong sense of community.
“Maggie’s Place is so good at providing wraparound services to their clients,” said Samantha Jackson, Community Development & Engagement Director of Housing and Homelessness at Valley of the Sun United Way. “Maggie’s Place serves as a critical safety net for these moms, which contributes to our overarching priorities at Valley of the Sun United Way.”
When Desire’ arrived, she was determined and hopeful. With her basic needs met, she was able to focus on rebuilding her life.
“I went to every class they offered,” Desire’ said. “I earned a carpentry certificate, became trauma-informed, and took motherhood courses. I always had goals, I just needed support to reach them.”
During her time at Maggie’s Place, Desire’ gave birth to her son and found a renewed sense of purpose. That purpose ultimately led her back to Maggie’s Place – this time in her role as the administrative coordinator, helping other mothers towards stability.
Today, Desire’ and her son live in a safe, permanent home – breaking the cycle of abuse she once faced. Desire’ often reflects on how far she’s come – and on the community that supported her, including Valley of the Sun United Way.
“United Way’s support of Maggie’s Place taught me appreciation in life,” Desire’ shared, wiping tears of joy from her eyes. “Some of these women never had anything of their own, or even a roof over their heads. Because of United Way, now we’re stronger women.”
Adding to this, Desire’ said “I’m a better mom, a better person. I discovered I am resilient, and that giving truly never gives up.”
This impact is made possible through collective action – through donors, partners, and community members who believe that every family deserves a safe place to call home.
Strong families are a strong Valley community.
