Janelle arrived at Sojourner Center with her young daughter, both uncertain about what came next. After leaving an abusive relationship, one thing was certain, she was ready to make a change in her life. Like many families in shelter, they needed more than safety — they needed stability and a foothold toward something new. To free up time for job searching and recovering from a car accident, Janelle enrolled her daughter, Alexis, in Sojourner Center’s Child Development Center.
Alexis was hesitant at first, reluctant to separate from her mother each morning. Adjusting to a new environment after a period of instability takes time. She kept mostly to herself, quiet around staff and other children. Gradually, with patient and consistent care from the childcare team, she began to open up — cracking jokes with teachers, singing quietly to herself, using words to express what she needed. Each small shift reflected something growing: a sense of security she could count on.
By the time Janelle left Sojourner Center, she had recovered from her car accident and secured a job with help from her case manager. She also left knowing her daughter had found her footing.
Donate today to sustain Sojourner Center’s Child Development Center and keep this high level of care available to every family that arrives at Sojourner Center.
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