When Community Shows Mothers They Are Not Alone

This Mother’s Day, we honor the courage and resilience of moms like Mariah Barton—women who, against all odds, refuse to give up on building a better life for their children.

Two years ago, Mariah found herself facing circumstances no mother should have to endure. “I didn't know where my next meal was going to come from,” she recalls. As a single mother of three, Mariah was overwhelmed, isolated, and running on empty.

Mariah found herself trapped in a constant cycle where something vital was always missing—whether it was a job, childcare, or reliable transportation. When she had a job, she lacked childcare or a car. When she had childcare, she didn’t have a car.

"It was always one of the three that always occurred and this pattern was happening for five years. Without being able to maintain a job, I was not able to provide food on the table or take care of my three babies.”

The instability wore heavily on Mariah—not just financially, but emotionally and mentally as well. The constant uncertainty left her feeling overwhelmed and defeated.

"I didn't know what was going to happen the next day, and I wasn't mentally prepared for anything that would happen the next day. I was really depressed and suicidal and felt like I was alone."

Her turning point began with a simple act of faith and a visit to First Baptist Church in Van Buren. There, she met Pastor Chris, who prayed for her and delivered a food box. It was a moment that sparked something deeper. “I told God that I was tired. I didn't want to live this way anymore… I prayed to God that I would give him my life.”

That surrender opened the door to a new chapter. Through the same church, Mariah met Karen Phillips, who introduced her to Trudy Smith, a family advocate with the 100 Families Initiative.

Through the 100 Families network of nonprofits and agencies, Trudy Smith was able to connect Mariah to employment and assistance with basic everyday needs. She moved into a stable home and with childcare assistance, transportation vouchers, and emotional support, she began to rebuild her life.

For Mariah, being able to celebrate holidays with her children—once a painful reminder of what she couldn’t provide—became a new source of joy. She has the financial and emotional stability to create those memories: “I'm able to celebrate their birthdays. I'm able to celebrate holidays, and I don't have to worry or feel alone.”

Perhaps most impactful was how these supports empowered Mariah as a mother, giving her the confidence and stability she needed to care for her children. “Just being a mom, knowing that I am not alone, is really great,” she says. Through her Bible study and new community, she found friendship, faith, and a renewed sense of purpose.

“My kids, they have noticed that I'm not as sad as much. I'm not as depressed as much. I'm not as stressed as much.”

Mariah’s journey is a testimony to what’s possible when a mother is met with grace, guidance, and community. This Mother’s Day, we celebrate Mariah and countless other mothers who, despite unimaginable challenges, rise every day to fight for a better future for their children.

“I just want to thank everyone that has ever helped me. Thank you for being a part of my life, and I appreciate everything you've done for me.” – Mariah Barton