How Rikki Built a Future for her Family

When Rikki Love first connected with the 100 Families Initiative in Franklin County, she was pregnant, raising children, and facing an uncertain financial future. With her boyfriend in prison, she was suddenly responsible for providing for her growing family on her own.

She wanted to work. She wanted to provide for her children. But between childcare, transportation, and mounting household expenses, she needed a plan to make it possible.

Today, Rikki is successfully employed as a home health aide, has purchased a new vehicle, and is independently supporting her family. Her journey from financial crisis to stability is a testament to her determination and the power of community collaboration.

When Rikki enrolled in the 100 Families Initiative in May 2025, she began working with Family Advocate Mya Jones of Project Community to identify her family's most urgent needs and develop a plan for financial independence.

Together, they worked on budgeting, managing household expenses, and connecting with resources that could help relieve some of the immediate financial pressure.

One of the biggest barriers to returning to work was childcare. Through connections with the Franklin County Development Center, Rikki found affordable daycare that allowed her to pursue employment while knowing her children were cared for.

She returned to work as a home health aide and took a second job at a factory to make ends meet. But when she began losing clients in her home health position, maintaining a consistent income became difficult.

Rather than giving up, Rikki continued working and rebuilding her client base. Over time, her income increased enough that she no longer needed her second job at the factory. She could focus on her work as a home health aide while earning enough to support her family.

Throughout her journey, several community partners helped Rikki overcome barriers that could have prevented her from reaching her goals.

Honey's Family Resource Closet provided essential items, including a car seat and clothing for her children. The Pregnancy Help Center supported her during pregnancy and helped provide formula, diapers, and other necessities for her growing family.

Through Project Community and the 100 Families Initiative, Rikki also received assistance identifying resources for utilities and household expenses, strengthening her ability to maintain a stable home.

Each organization played a role in helping Rikki address immediate needs while she continued working toward long-term independence.

As Rikki's employment and finances improved, so did her independence.

She purchased a new vehicle, giving her reliable transportation to work and the ability to manage her family's daily needs without depending on others.

She also developed stronger budgeting skills and increased her income to the point that she now relies only minimally on SNAP benefits.

But one of the most significant changes in Rikki's journey was personal.

Throughout her time with 100 Families, she made the difficult decision to leave an unhealthy relationship and focus on raising her children independently. With growing confidence in her ability to provide for her family, she began building a future defined by her own goals rather than the circumstances she had faced.

Today, Rikki is maintaining her household expenses, working successfully, and providing for her children. What once seemed overwhelming has become manageable through her persistence, hard work, and the support of a community working together.

For Rikki, success is knowing she can provide for her children, make decisions for her family's future, and continue building a life of independence.