Monique had her first baby when she was 15 years old. She dropped out of school when she had the baby, and a few months later was placed into foster care because of the unhealthy living situation at her parent’s house. Once she turned 18, she was basically on her own. Over the next several years, she had three more kids but never a stable place to live. Monique and her children were homeless.
Monique found out about Solid Ground while living in shelter. She was on the waiting list for 4 months before an apartment became available at East Metro Place II permanent supportive housing. She moved in on her birthday.
Monique and her advocate started meeting weekly. Her kids are receiving needed academic support through Solid Ground’s Learning & Enrichment Program. Monique has completed the Dialectical Skills Therapy program as well as tenant training and budgeting. Through Solid Ground’s Employment & Education Program, Monique started a volunteer placement. This experience helped her to find paid employment and within a few months Monique started working as teacher’s aide in a local preschool. After completing the remedial coursework necessary to move forward with her education, Monique is currently enrolled in a Childcare Development Associate program to further her skills and career in working with children.