Nothing compares to getting to see the clients at Operation HOPE-North County as they transition into independent living. We want to share a few stories with you all and we hope it sparks the same joy.

Imani’s Story

After years of what seemed never ending abuse and constant harassment, Imani found her inner strength to escape. Despite the challenges Imani faced, she possessed an unwavering will to persevere and rise above the pain. Imani’s determination to break free from the chains of abuse is truly inspiring. 

When Imani received a call from OHNC, all she could remember was the soothing sound of our staff who assisted her. That was when she knew OHNC was the right fit for her. Imani found herself feeling hopeless and lost. With the help of her case manager and through the steps of independence Imani was able to obtain a higher full-time job in addition to her part time job. Shortly after, Imani was able to enroll in school to begin her career as a medical assistant. Throughout her time with OHNC, Imani was able to maintain her therapy and begin going to the gym in order to boost her self-confidence and mental health. By the time that Imani moved into her new home, she was able to save $2,500. To Imani, OHNC adds meaning to the word “hope”: a feeling of expectation and desire for a certain thing to happen, a feeling of trust, or wanting something to happen. Imani will occasionally reach out to staff to let them know how she is doing and to thank them for restoring her HOPE. 

Rosa’s Story

Rosa found herself fleeing domestic violence at the hands of her husband. Rosa worked as a nurse in her community for many years then became a stay-at-home wife and mother when she married. She arrived at OHNC with no transportation, a stroller, and the clothes she was able to carry. Being new to the community and having so many needs, Rosa did not know where to get started. Rosa was able to work with her case manager to meet her basic needs and was connected to different programs and resources. In addition to this, Rosa was able to enroll in an online program to pursue her Bachelor’s degree in nursing, later learning she received a $3,000 scholarship for school. 

Soon after, Rosa obtained daycare for her infant, obtained employment as an RN at a local nursing home, received a $6 raise within 90 days of employment, and saved over $6,000. Rosa was also able to obtain therapy for herself along with attending additional workshops to assist in building her self-esteem and independence. By this time, Rosa had a strong community assisting her and was the recipient of the Champion’s Award hosted by CalWORKs. Rosa and her infant were grateful to move into their first one-bedroom apartment shortly after receiving her award and were able to get rental assistance for a few months along with furniture. Rosa and her baby still visit OHNC from time to time to catch up with the staff and also shop at the Pantry of HOPE and New Beginnings Boutique.

Laila’s Story

After many years of hiding the abuse from her children, Laila gathered her children, one of whom was autistic, to move far away to escape her tormentor. In search of safety and a new beginning, Laila and her three children embarked on a journey and quickly found themselves facing a new battle – homelessness. Laila never lost sight of her children’s needs. She tirelessly advocated for her autistic child, ensuring he received the care and support he desperately required. With each passing day, her love for her children grew stronger, fueling her determination to provide them with a better life. Through her children’s school teacher, Laila was introduced to OHNC. 

When Laila received a call from OHNC she felt like a huge weight was lifted off her shoulders and cried from the joy she felt. Laila and her children were met with kindness, understanding, and were provided with a safe space and resources. 

Through OHNC’s Steps to Independence, Laila was able to maintain her vehicle, obtain employment, and connect her son with specialized therapy that allowed him to thrive. The program allowed her children to continue going to school well rested, start and maintain a savings account, and enroll in workshops that assisted her in regaining her independence. With steady income and newfound stability, Laila was able to secure a modest apartment for her children and transformed it into a home filled with love and warmth. 

With the help of the community, Laila and her family were able to move in right before Christmas and enjoy their first Christmas in their new home. Laila and her children occasionally stop by OHNC to say hi, give updates, and the children let staff know how they can’t wait until they are old enough to volunteer on their own.

Martha’s Story

Separated by border walls from her mother, Martha turned to her father for guidance but was faced with neglect. Confused and scared, Martha had no idea how to navigate her new reality. Martha found herself becoming a teen parent and faced many further obstacles. Her longing for a family led to a cycle of delinquency and domestic violence. Martha tried to break this cycle to protect her five children, but when the harassment would not stop she knew she needed help. 

Martha turned to her children’s school for help, and there she discovered OHNC, which provided Martha with resources and support to help her break the cycle of domestic violence and find a better life for herself and her children. Martha was able to find employment, improve her credit, secure housing, and access resources that helped her become a better parent.