Across Maricopa County, countless stories begin in silence. The silent survival of abuse leaves more than emotional and physical scars; it takes away stability, safety, and for many, a place to call home.
This silent survival was reality for Karen, a single mother whose life unraveled at the hands of someone she once trusted.
For 12 years Karen and her children were trapped in a cycle of abuse, with nowhere to turn. Her partner destroyed all her belongings, restricted her mail, and even refused her access to a personal phone – making escape seem impossible.
“It was a scary time for me and my kids,” Karen said as she looked to the ground. “I always felt like I could never move ahead.”
Karen finally reached her breaking point. Through the help and guidance of a friend, she and her children escaped. Leaving behind all their possessions, Karen and her children arrived at UMOM New Day Centers for a fresh start.
“UMOM was the start of me being self-sufficient and getting out of a situation I was completely trapped in,” Karen shared.
UMOM is one of several community partners Valley of the Sun United Way and our donors support as part of a collaboration to reduce homelessness.
“UMOM is an incredible longtime partner of United Way,” said Samantha Jackson, Community Development & Engagement Director of Housing and Homelessness at Valley of the Sun United Way. “There are two sides of the work Valley of the Sun United Way does in housing and homelessness – prevention and intervention. A lot of our focus with UMOM is to move families out of shelters, and into their own stable housing.”
In addition to emergency shelter for Karen, her children and others escaping abuse, UMOM works with families to solve their housing crisis holistically by partnering with them to set and achieve goals.
Since UMOM’s program provided her with all the tools she needed – such as job readiness courses and resume creation support, Karen was able to start working as a car salesperson. This was the first time she was able to save money in many years.
“There are a lot of great stories, just like Karen’s, with all of our partners at Valley of the Sun United Way,” Jackson said. “What’s great about Karen’s story, is that it showcases the power behind wrap-around services. The teams at our partner agencies really focus on what their clients need to be successful. Karen was able to take her six months at UMOM and get stabilized.”
With financial savings underway, Karen purchased her own vehicle and obtained her Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) – leading to a higher earning potential and more stability for her family.
“I knew I had to use all the tools,” Karen said confidently. “I don’t ever want to go back to where I was.”
Through UMOM and the resources and support of Valley of the Sun United Way, Karen and her family are now in a safe and stable home. She holds a permanent position as a CDL driver with Waste Management – a career she is very passionate about.
“United Way has so many programs that will help you get on your feet,” Karen said, smiling proudly as she adjusted her Waste Management uniform. “I would not have gotten here without the help of United Way.”
