From Survival to Stability: A Story from Our Family Residential Program
Every single day, Maria* feared for her 14-year-old son’s safety.
They lived in a high-crime neighborhood where worry had become a constant companion. Like many parents, Maria wanted something different for her child, a place where he could simply grow up without fear. But wanting a safer life and finding a way to get there are often two very different things.
When Maria made the difficult and courageous decision to leave, she knew she was taking a risk. Starting over meant stepping into uncertainty, and she needed support to make sure this fresh start didn’t become a false one. But finding safe, affordable housing on her limited income felt nearly impossible.
That’s when a community partner referred her to Cumberland’s Family Residential Program.
Programs like this exist for moments exactly like Maria’s. When families are ready to move forward but need the right support to make lasting change possible. As the program's director, Susie Brown describes it, “the goal is simple but powerful: empowering families to move from vulnerability to stability—and from stability to thriving.”
For Maria and her son, the program provided something they hadn’t had in a long time: safety and stability. Once those basic needs were met, Maria could finally focus on the future she had always wanted to build for her family. With the constant pressure of survival lifted, she was able to pursue goals that once felt completely out of reach.
Maria went on to complete her bachelor’s degree and secure a position in her chosen field, milestones that once seemed impossible when every week was spent stretching an already-thin paycheck. During her time in the Family Residential Program, Maria also worked hard to strengthen her family in meaningful ways. She:
Built her self-confidence
Improved her behavioral health
Strengthened her parenting skills with support and guidance
Created a healthier, more hopeful home environment for her children
The program is designed to support families as they grow in exactly these ways, providing not just a place to live, but an environment where families can build strength and confidence together. “It’s about creating a place where families find safety, build strength, and grow into their fullest potential.” Susie Brown, Family Residential Program Director.
Maria embraced every opportunity the program offered. Using every resource available to her, she and her children flourished. Today, Maria has successfully transitioned into stable, affordable housing in the community. She hasn’t just created a safer life for her children; she’s built a future filled with possibilities through her hard work and the support and dedication of our incredible staff.
Maria’s story is a powerful reminder that when families are given safety, support, and the opportunity to rebuild, the results can be life-changing not only for parents but for their children and future generations.
Stories like Maria’s are made possible by a community that believes every family deserves stability and hope. When you support our Family Residential Program, you help provide families with more than housing—you help create the foundation for new beginnings.
If you would like to be part of stories like Maria’s, please consider supporting the Family Residential Program today.
*Name and identifying details changed to protect our client’s privacy
Pictured to the right is one of our temporarily vacant FRP duplexes as we prepare to welcome our next family home. Also pictured is a Welcome Home Basket generously donated by Southmont Baptist Church, helping us create a warm and supportive start for the family who will soon walk through the door.
