
For many families in crisis, the way forward can feel overwhelming, especially when multiple obstacles stand in the way. This was the case for Vicki and her three children when they connected with the 100 Families Initiative. Facing homelessness, a language barrier, lack of medical care, no childcare, and unemployment, Vicki was caught in a cycle where one challenge led to another, making progress seem nearly impossible.
One of the biggest hurdles Vicki faced was the lack of a primary care provider. This kept them from accessing childcare, and without childcare, she couldn’t secure employment—leaving her family in a vulnerable position. The weight of these barriers left them in crisis, with no clear path forward.
Determined to create a better future for herself and her children, Vicki put in the work and sought support from the 100 Families Initiative. With the guidance of her advocate, Natalie Edwards, and the collaboration of several key organizations—including DHS (TEA program), Weichert Realty, the Housing Authority, HomeArp, 1st Choice Health Care, and ARKids—Vicki began to see real change.
Since April 2024, Vicki has made incredible progress. She and her children now have an affordable and safe home, providing them with much-needed stability. Her children have been connected with a primary care provider (PCP), ensuring they have access to medical care. They are set to enroll in childcare soon, allowing Vicki to take the next major step—finding employment.
Vicki’s story is a powerful example of how small barriers can keep families trapped in crisis, but also how small steps can break those barriers down. Through hard work, determination, and the right support network, she has been able to move forward toward long-term stability and freedom.
Her journey is far from over, but the progress she has made proves that no challenge is insurmountable with the right resources and persistence.
Smart Justice is a magazine, podcast, and continuing news coverage from the nonprofit Restore Hope and covers the pursuit of better outcomes on justice system-related issues, such as child welfare, incarceration, and juvenile justice. Our coverage is solutions-oriented, focusing on the innovative ways in which communities are solving issues and the lessons that have been learned as a result of successes and challenges.
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