Archive for category: Housing

Amya, our latest young adult graduate, spent roughly seven months in the Hillcrest program after finding herself with nothing after leaving an unstable home. She was at her rock bottom and had consequently drifted away from her church. 

When she first came to the program, she did not have her driver’s license, nor did she know how to drive. Amya took it upon herself to find a driving instructor, take lessons, learn how to manage a vehicle, obtain her license, and purchase her first car. She also completed two classes that were offered through her employer, the Park Hill School District; she was working full-time when she accomplished this. Through hard work, Amya was able to pay off over $7,500 in debt during her time at Hillcrest. She has purchased new glasses, built a savings account, and set a goal to someday begin her own nonprofit.

Amya, being a wonderful cook, will be working in the kitchen at a summer camp this year. While at Hillcrest, she poured back into the community by making meals for the life skills group and for other young adults. In addition, she offered instruction to another young adult who needed support. Now, Amya is active in her church again and serves as a women’s minister.

From Amya, “I want to thank everybody that has helped me on my journey here. I’ve learned as part of my testimony that God will provide all of your needs. Even in your lowest moments, He hears your cry. Just being here, God has revealed a lot to me. I have met a lot of different people from different walks of life and I believe that this was a part of my purpose and you all are a part of my purpose. God loves you all and He hears you. Don’t ever think that you’re in this life alone, you have a purpose. –My nonprofit is in the works and will be called Blooming Women of Essense; it will exist to help women in their walks with Christ.”

Atong and Rosleen came into the HPC program following a devastating fire in which they lost their apartment and everything in it. Having nowhere to go, they reached out to the school social worker for help. Knowing that the family could use not only shelter but also guidance on budgeting and life choices, HPC was contacted. Within a week, the family moved into a unit on property to begin the program.

Since being in the program, Atong and Rosleen have paid off all of their debt and saved enough money to get an apartment of their own with their 12-year-old son. While this event could have had a detrimental effect, The Lord turned beauty for ashes as the family graduated from the program in January. Now, with the right structure at home, their son has shown improvement in school and better grades.

We wish this family success in the future and the faith to believe that The Lord’s desire is for them to have “oil of joy instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair.” -Isaiah 61:3

Jordan and her daughter Vi came to Hillcrest in April of 2022 after living with a family member.

Jordan was a single mother who had no stable place to raise her 2-year-old daughter. Before entering the program, Jordan struggled to adjust to structure and accountability and did not stay at a job very long.

Since being with HPC, Jordan has been in SATOP (Substance Awareness Traffic Offender Program) classes to get her driver’s license back and has almost completed those classes. She has a stable job and has contributed to a savings account while paying off debt.

Jordan has benefited from the Counseling Center through which she has received assistance with her mental health which will allow her to be the best mother she can be to Vi.

We have enjoyed watching her grow!

Ryan’s Inspirational Journey to Success

Life often presents challenges that test our resilience and determination, and Ryan’s story is a testament to the power of unwavering perseverance and the support of the right community. Ryan’s journey from living in his car while trying to finish high school to successfully graduating from the HPC Housing program and securing a bright future is nothing short of inspiring.

Imagine trying to focus on your studies and complete high school while struggling to find a safe place to live. This was the reality for Ryan, who found himself living in his car for months, battling against circumstances that could have easily shattered his dreams. Despite these overwhelming challenges, Ryan stayed enrolled in school, to create a better life.

The Young Adult Program: A Turning Point

The HPC program provided Ryan with the support and the resources he needed to overcome his dire situation. Through the program, he not only found a stable living environment but he also found a network of individuals who believed in his potential. With the guidance of the housing staff, Ryan began to rebuild his life step by step.

One of the most remarkable achievements in Ryan’s journey was earning his high school diploma. Through hard work, Ryan crossed the finish line and proudly held his diploma in his hands.

Ryan’s journey didn’t end with his high school diploma. With newfound confidence and determination, he pursued full-time employment in the security sector. His commitment to building a stable future pushed him to excel in his job, proving that with the right mindset, even the most challenging obstacles can be overcome.

Prioritizing Family

Despite the demands of his job and his personal journey, Ryan never lost sight of what truly mattered to him – his daughter. He made it a priority to maintain regular contact with her and consistently provide child support. This dedication to his family highlighted Ryan’s transformation into a responsible and caring individual.

A Bright Future Ahead

As Ryan successfully graduated from the Housing program, a new chapter in his life began. With his head held high and his heart full of hope, he moved into his own apartment in downtown Kansas City. His words at the graduation ceremony – “If it weren’t for HPC, I don’t know where I would be, and I know I wouldn’t be where I am today” – encapsulate the gratitude he feels for the program that helped him transform his life. Ryan’s inspiring tale serves as a beacon of hope, encouraging us all to believe in our potential and to never give up, no matter the obstacles that come our way. There’s no doubt that Ryan’s journey is far from over – it’s just beginning.

Facing the challenging reality of her husband’s return to alcohol, Rachel made the brave decision to file for divorce. With two young sons to protect and a desire for a safer, more stable future, Rachel sought refuge and support at Hillcrest Platte County (HPC).

Upon entering the HPC program, Rachel set ambitious goals for herself: pay off debt, save money, and secure a place of her own. Through sheer determination and the resources provided by HPC, Rachel not only achieved but surpassed these objectives. With a Master’s degree in hand, which she had obtained previous to entering the program, and a fulfilling job, Rachel has paved the way for a brighter future for herself and her sons.

The success doesn’t end there. Now settled in her own apartment, Rachel plans to give back to HPC by offering parenting classes to future participants.