Lydia and her daughter 
100 Families Initiative

Lydia's Family: Building a Better Future

Lydia's story of overcoming housing instability, legal issues, and mental health challenges.

Kayley Ramsey

In January 2023, Lydia’s life was filled with challenges and uncertainty. When Lydia, her partner, and their children, enrolled in the 100 Families Initiative, they were dealing with housing instability, gaps in healthcare coverage, and legal issues.

Lydia was unsure if her family was receiving Medicaid or SNAP benefits. She had recently acquired a vehicle but lacked the necessary tags and insurance. Unresolved legal issues loomed over her, creating further stress. Lydia was also grappling with mental health concerns and was hesitant to seek help.

Despite these hurdles, Lydia was determined to build a better life for her family.

Over the past year and a half, Lydia has made remarkable strides in achieving stability and improving her quality of life with the help of holistic community support.

Lydia and her family successfully relocated to a more stable living situation. She obtained tags and insurance for her vehicle, ensuring reliable and legal transportation. With support, Lydia enrolled in Medicaid and Medicare. She feels empowered now because she understands her policy, what it covers, and how to utilize these essential resources.

Overcoming her initial hesitation, Lydia began attending telehealth therapy sessions. This step has been crucial for her personal growth and mental well-being. Lydia actively participates in an alternative sentencing program, addressing her legal challenges constructively. She has expressed interest in joining a homemaker/caretaker program once she completes her current commitments.

Lydia’s transformation is a testament to her determination and the power of supportive community resources. She has taken significant steps toward building a brighter future for herself and her family. Lydia’s journey is proof that with determination and community collaboration, no challenge is insurmountable.

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. 

The podcast is available on all major podcasting platforms.

Subscribe to the Smart Justice newsletter.