When Elizabeth first stepped into the YMCA of Greater Long Beach, she wasn’t just looking for childcare. She was searching for a way to hold her family together.
A single mother of four, Elizabeth had spent years navigating some of life’s most difficult challenges. She had struggled with addiction and was a survivor of domestic violence. At one point, her children were placed in foster care while she worked toward recovery and rebuilding her life.
“Having my kids taken away was one of the most challenging times of my life and for them as well,” she said. “I didn’t give up. My kids were my motivation to get back on my feet.”
Elizabeth eventually achieved sobriety and reunited her family. But rebuilding wasn’t easy. “We have struggled so much, including financially, to the point where I was only able to feed my children the bare minimum just to get by on a day to day basis.”
She needed a place where her children could feel safe and supported while she focused on staying sober and finding work. That’s when she found the YMCA of Greater Long Beach.
“Around this time last year, I had the pleasure to meet Ms. Angelica, director at the Fairfield site,” Elizabeth recalled. “I remember walking in and asking about the program and the cost. The prices were not in my budget whatsoever and I told Ms. Angelica I didn't have the money to pay. And she told me not to worry about the cost of the childcare program.”
Because of the generosity of Ballmer Group and the partnerships that make the YMCA’s work possible, Elizabeth has received 100 percent financial assistance for three of her children.
“I’m grateful that the YMCA has all this support and resources that my family needs,” she said. “They help my children with their homework, reading, and provide snacks and supper, which I’m extremely grateful for.”
Her children also benefited from transportation, social engagement, and consistent care. “They have progressed in school, are more social and interactive, and feel safe.”
For Elizabeth, that peace of mind has been transformative. “It has helped me keep all the kids in one place, giving them opportunities to participate in activities and trips.”
Elizabeth’s story is just one example of how Ballmer Group’s investment has strengthened the YMCA of Greater Long Beach. This support has expanded access to after-school care, day camps, swim lessons, and transportation. It has also allowed the YMCA to launch new sites like the Wrigley Youth Center, and provide mental health and foster youth services in historically underserved neighborhoods.
“I’m so thankful for all this help that is provided,” Elizabeth said, “because I’m able to do my programs to stay sober for my children while they are being cared for.”
With that support, her family continues to move forward. “My family and I are doing so much better and look forward to continue to better myself as well as keep my kids on track with school and Y activities,” she said. “It truly takes a village and I’m thankful that the Y is there to support my family.”
When families are met with care, trust, and the chance to start again, they don’t just recover. They rise.
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