Raising Grandkids, Facing Crisis: The Jackson's Story

When Ursula and Billie Jackson joined the 100 Families Initiative in July 2024, they were working long hours, raising their grandchildren, and facing an overwhelming number of challenges—often with little support. But from day one, Ursula was determined to move her family forward.

Juggling two jobs, Ursula didn’t wait for solutions to come to her—she pursued them. She applied for housing assistance and LIHEAP, scheduled crucial Social Security appointments, and secured help for essentials like diapers and school supplies. One of her grandchildren had recently been diagnosed as legally deaf, and she made it her mission to get the medical care and therapy needed, no matter how complicated the process.

By January 2025, Ursula’s efforts had begun to pay off. With the guidance and support of the 100 Families Initiative, she had successfully secured health insurance, ensured regular doctor visits for her grandchildren, and submitted applications for Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Even more encouraging, her DCFS case was officially closed as unfounded—an enormous step toward family stability and peace of mind.

Among her milestones was opening a checking account—a first for her—and learning to manage her bills and expenses independently. This financial empowerment was more than a practical step; it was a symbol of Ursula’s growing confidence and control over her family’s future.

As her stability continued to strengthen, Ursula celebrated several additional milestones. She fully paid her bankruptcy attorney and was informed that her case should be processed by the beginning of the new year. She continues to work closely with her landlord to catch up on past-due rent and is focused on becoming fully current. She shared with pride that she is now purchasing her own groceries, has food consistently in the home, and has all regular household bills up to date. For the first time, she did not use the full amount of her LIHEAP assistance—proof of the financial growth she has worked so hard to achieve.

The Jacksons are also taking steps to support their grandchildren’s needs. Ursula has applied for SSI benefits for her oldest granddaughter, Aliyah, and was advised by the Department of Social Services that Nevaeh and Treyton may also qualify. She is now gathering the documents needed to move forward with their applications.

Recently, when asked by her Family Advocate whether the family needed help with Christmas gifts, Ursula said they did not—sharing that this was the first time she has ever been able to turn down holiday assistance. She expressed how much her Family Advocate has taught her and said she is “forever grateful” for the growth, stability, and confidence she now feels.

Throughout this journey, the Jacksons have received vital support from several community partners, including Medical Solutions of Arkansas, LLC, ArKids Pediatric Day Centers, Crowley Ridge Development Center, and Together We Foster. These organizations, along with support from the Options Pregnancy Resource Center and the coordinated care made possible through HopeHub, have played a key role in helping stabilize the family and meet the children’s developmental, medical, and daily living needs.

Ursula reports that her main focus now is staying on track with her rent and continuing to strengthen her financial stability. She is demonstrating consistent progress and growing confidence in handling her responsibilities. Both she and Billie expressed deep appreciation for the support they’ve received and shared how grateful they are for the opportunity to build a more stable and hopeful future.

Ursula and Billie's story is still unfolding, but they have shown that with determination—and the right support system—stability and success are well within reach.