On the 4th of July we often hear the question: Is the American Dream real? Here is one American girl’s story—you be the judge.
In 1970, I lived in the “projects” with my daughters, ages 7 & 8. Their father had never been in our lives and I had tried to support us, but despite my best efforts, even when I was employed as a typist for the state, we were nearly homeless and often hungry. Depressed, ashamed, and defeated, I gave up and went on welfare. A social worker who believed in me referred me to the Family Services Agency for free counseling. It was there that I asked myself: What if I went to six years of college and became a psychotherapist? What an impossible dream! But with government programs such as Aide to Families with Dependent Children, the college Work Study program, low-income housing and low-income childcare, in 1977 I graduated with a master’s degree. From Welfare to a 30-year career as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker? Only in America!
I agree…you are an inspiration! The more I hear about your life, the more I want to know. You’ve got so many layers. I have been on foods stamps, pregnant, working minimum wage and putting a husband through collage. So grateful for the California public education system, grants etc…that later supported me through college, and government care my sister got when terminally ill. Yes, there are abuses with people falsifying need, and taking advantage of assistance. However, when I think of how much those that get a hand up give back, it’s got to overcompensate the losses. So grateful for the help I got. Bev Call, Masters in Education
Thanks for sharing Shelia…We all need to remind ourselves…we can whine or we can WIN.!
what an inspiration, Sheila! Hard work, determination, & you now inslire others to pursue their dreams! Never underestimate the power of a woman on a mission! Proud of you!! janice
Sheila, thank you for sharing this encouraging and personal story. You are a light to us.
Thank you for sharing “the rest of the story”. Overcoming very rough times was quite an achievement Shiela.
I hope the programs we have/had in this country will continue to be available for other moms and kids.
You are such an inspiration and have admired you since we met one year ago!
Your enthusiasm, energy and determination seem boundless!!
And your committment to lift up women you meet and share their stories with us is a much needed and appreciated part of our circle of “ wise and mature women and neighbors”.
Beautifully told—the hardships were real but you were amazing to overcome them. A message for everyone today. Thanks for sharing.
Way to go! You did it. And thank God for government programs that help propel people forward.
P
From women can’t to yes, they can.
Congratulations!
Yes, only in America but also you, a strong woman and mother, gave your daughters the best example of a mother-
Determination and hard work!
That’s how we in America can change our story🕉️
You lift us all up and inspire so many of us to do the same. You’re the BEST!!
Awesome Sheila!!
Bravo, Sheila! I wish more people could hear your story so they would be less eager to find fault with the public assistance program.
So proud of you Sheila! You have “SPUNK!”
You had motivation, determination, a mission and drive. The USA has programs to help women achieve their goals.