Marta’s Journey to Mental Wellness and Stable Employment

When Marta first connected with the 100 Families Initiative, the barriers in front of her felt overwhelming.

Without a birth certificate, even the most basic steps toward stability—securing transportation, applying for housing, or pursuing employment—were out of reach. At the same time, she was unemployed, struggling with confidence, and navigating a mental health crisis that made it difficult to see a path forward.

But through the power of community partnership, those barriers did not remain permanent.

A local faith partner, El Dorado First Assembly of God, stepped in to cover the cost of obtaining her California birth certificate—removing a critical obstacle and opening the door to new opportunities.

With that barrier lifted, additional support quickly followed. Through collaboration with Goodwill Industries, she was hired as a part-time cashier, giving her the chance to rebuild both her confidence and her work experience.

That step forward sparked something deeper.

Encouraged by her progress, she applied for a new role at Champagnolle Landing, where she now works with a renewed sense of purpose and fulfillment—something she hadn’t experienced in a long time.

At the same time, her journey toward stability extended beyond employment. She was connected to New Haven Counseling Services, where ongoing counseling has played a key role in her healing. With consistent support, she has made meaningful progress in her mental health and is now in a much healthier emotional place.

Throughout every step, the consistent presence of her 100 Families support team made a lasting difference.

"Over the past year, Elesha and Mallory with 100 Families has been a constant source of support, guidance, and hope in my life."

She described how their support went beyond quick answers or surface-level help. When challenges arose, they stayed committed to finding solutions and walking alongside her through each step forward.

"What stands out most is their honesty and commitment—if they don’t immediately have an answer, they don’t turn you away. Instead, they go the extra mile to find one."

In some of her most difficult moments, that support became deeply personal.

"When I needed encouragement and prayer, she didn’t hesitate—she showed up with both, offering not only support but genuine care."

Alongside emotional encouragement, she also received practical guidance that helped her build a more stable future—learning how to make thoughtful financial decisions and plan beyond immediate needs.

One of the most impactful moments in her journey came through something that might seem simple, but had long felt out of reach.

"One of the greatest blessings was their help in obtaining my birth certificate from California—something that felt overwhelming and out of reach on my own."

That single step unlocked access to the resources and opportunities she needed to move forward.

Even during the holiday season, the support she experienced reminded her that she and her family were not alone—that they were seen, valued, and cared for in tangible ways.

Today, her story reflects what is possible when a community comes together—faith partners, employers, service providers, and advocates all aligned around one goal.

She is now in a place of growing stability, confidence, and hope.

And her words say it best:

"Having a place like 100 Families in our community is truly invaluable… I am incredibly thankful to have had that kind of support system in my life."

This is what it looks like when barriers are removed, relationships are built, and a community works together to help families move from crisis to stability—and beyond.