Then, Joanne saw a television commercial for United Way 211, and she decided to make that her first call for help. "I was very impressed with the resources that United Way has to offer and the information was extremely helpful," said Joanne.

United Way 211 directed her to the Nicholas House, a United Way-funded transitional housing program. Joanne was able move into the home with her children immediately. Nicholas House also offered Joanne classes on parenting skills, personal finances, budgeting and computer training. Joanne also needed day care for her children while she worked two part-time jobs. Atlanta Children's Shelter, a United Way-funded childcare provider, proved to be the right solution.

Now, Joanne lives in a four-bedroom home in a safe neighborhood. "I have two teenage boys who could have been susceptible to the temptations of public housing neighborhoods. I wanted them to grow up in a safe neighborhood away from harmful influences," she said. She works full-time at Crawford Long Hospital and her family is doing well. A caseworker supports the family through its transition, offering financial and household management assistance and helping them establish their new household.

"I just feel blessed. I have 5 children and have been through a traumatic life, but have still managed to provide for my family and myself."

Helping others reach their full potential is just one of the ways United Way makes our community stronger and safer.