Jamesina

Jamesina, a 33-year-old single mother raising her 11-year-old child in Georgia, faced persistent financial struggles while pursuing a degree in Interdisciplinary Studies at Georgia State University. Despite her determination, she found herself overwhelmed and unable to effectively manage her finances. Amid mounting challenges, she lacked the resources to cover necessities like food and gas, leaving her in a precarious situation. Desperate for support, she applied to numerous assistance programs, including food stamps, but faced repeated denials, deepening her sense of frustration and hopelessness. 

In dire need of help, Jamesina discovered H.O.P.E. Inc.'s program through 211 United Way. When she was accepted, she was provided with the critical financial and personal support she needed. With their guidance, she not only regained stability but also thrived, completing her degree with distinction and launching a promising career in education. Her story underscores the urgent need for accessible support systems to empower individuals like Jamesina to overcome financial barriers and achieve their goals. 

Jamesina has worked in the education field as a paraprofessional for 5 years. She is currently working for the school's summer program. She faced not only physical challenges but also emotional ones. Her child's father was abusive which caused them to separate when her daughter was young. She also receives no financial support from the father but wanted to focus on going back to school to make a better life for her and her child. As time progressed, she faced homelessness throughout her academic journey, which was reflected in her transcript history. 

 "For years, it felt like there was no chance for her to finish school". She did all she could to provide and stay in school until she was notified that she had maxed out her financial aid. Then she tried applying for a loan only to get denied. 

Struggling to balance her academic aspirations with financial responsibilities, Jamesina felt overwhelmed and uncertain about how to provide for her daughter while pursuing her degree. The mounting costs of living expenses, combined with her daughter's needs for educational and extracurricular support, created a significant barrier to achieving her goals. These pressures made even basic necessities feel unattainable, threatening her ability to continue her education. Throughout her academic journey, she faced homelessness, which caused her grades to drop. Eventually, she found H.O.P.E Inc. through United Way. It was then that she felt like, finally, she could hold her head above water. 

"This program has been my source of strength, support, and encouragement." Jamesina says, "The team behind this mission is extraordinary, and their kindness has made this experience nothing short of life changing".  

H.O.P.E. Inc. provided Jamesina with $400 in rental assistance and childcare. While also supporting her with gas and food cards, Furniture and tutoring to support her child. She also was provided budget coaching through wallet coach and regular mentor check-ins. She stated that life coaching and the wallet coach helped her prepare for life post- graduation. 

  "I remember thinking what am I going to do, it was at my lowest point when I only had three dollars in my account that H.O.P.E came through" she says. "H.O.P.E.'s program has changed my life for the better and was a huge sense of relief."  

On November 17, 2024, Jamesina graduated from Georgia State University with a degree in  

Interdisciplinary Studies. 

"As a single mother striving to improve my life while managing a low income, the journey has been challenging. "However, with H.O.P.E Inc., I was able to push through and achieve one of my greatest accomplishments. I am now a Cum Laude Graduate of Georgia State University".(Jamesina, 2024 Graduate)