In August, 2023, Laura left an abusive relationship and moved to Colorado with her two children, Ariana and Goku. The vehicle she came with was the very first vehicle she owned and had used for 10 years. Upon arrival, she applied for a permit to stay at a park but unfortunately ended up living out of their vehicle behind Wal-Mart for three weeks. Laura needed work and started working for Door Dash until the vehicle started acting up.
She enrolled her children in a nearby school so they would not fall behind. When the school liaison found out about her living situation, she connected Laura to a case manager for transitional housing. During this time, Laura found a full-time position as a Para Instructor at the same school where her children attend. After a short time of working, the case manager directed Laura to apply for vehicle repairs at Hands. After the evaluation by our automotive team, staff had to deliver the message to Laura about the vehicle’s very poor condition. They advised her to contact Client Services about options for a vehicle and Laura was relieved to know that Hands was there to help her in a time of need. She was approved for Hands’ 3-year Lift UP program and waited for a vehicle that would kick start her family with a fresh start in Colorado.
On March 11th, Laura was placed with a 2009 Subaru Legacy. Blessings kept coming, Laura landed a second job at the same school for the After- School Program and was able to bring her children with her. She moved out of transitional housing and into her own apartment. She has become an ambassador for Hands and often speaks to single moms about Hands. Her children are excited for the adventures they are able to take and to explore the city parks. It is Hands’ joy to offer hope and assist Laura in her own significant efforts to care for her children in a safe environment and a safe and reliable vehicle.
Thank you for being part of the Hands Community that makes Laura’s journey possible!
