Sowing Seeds of Change: A Mother’s Journey of Growth and Resilience

The flowers bloomed, and a fresh batch of vegetables grew from the soil, as Hannah reflected. It was the newest garden bed in an acre of land she had transformed outside her childhood home after her father’s unexpected passing.

This expanding scene of vibrant color symbolizes more than her love for gardening and nature – it mirrors her own journey of growth and resilience, from an overwhelmed mother on the edge of homelessness to a confident mother brimming with hope and determination.

While she nurtured her garden, New Generation donors planted the seeds that transformed her life and her children’s future.

“It Was a Decision Best for My Children”

Growing up on the Seacoast of New Hampshire, Hannah’s resilience took shape from a young age. Living with autism, she developed a unique perspective of the world around her, shaped by her deep faith and Christian upbringing.

Her greatest joy was becoming a mother to her children Charlie and Isabel, whose well-being and needs she places above all else.

That was the case when tensions arose at home, creating an unhealthy environment for the children. Hannah made the difficult decision to prioritize their safety, leaving with the kids despite the uncertainty and risk of homelessness.

“I was scared and drowning emotionally,” she reflects. “I felt like I was struggling to be the mother my kids needed, without the support I needed to dig out of it.”

A New (Generation) Door Opens

Hannah first heard of New Generation years ago. Her mother donated clothing to the Greenland-based program that provides safe shelter and support services, helping mothers and children overcome homelessness and gain permanent housing. Little did Hannah know, it would eventually become a lifeline for her and her children.

Shortly after she moved out with the kids, Hannah was fortunate to secure a spot at New Generation. From the moment she stepped inside, she felt the warmth and strength of a welcoming, supportive community that included mothers navigating similar challenges.

“Having those bonds meant the world to me,” Hannah reflects. “I’ve never felt part of a community before I got to New Generation. I will draw from and value these connections for the rest of my life – they really helped change my outlook on being the best mother I can be.”

The staff were also invaluable to Hannah, providing individual case management, life-skills coaching, financial literacy training, and other support.

“The staff is so diligent and prepared,” she shared. “They help you set goals and walk alongside you as you achieve them.”

One of Hannah’s goals was getting her car fixed. Without it, she couldn’t take the kids where they needed to go or to doctor appointments. She also focused on regaining her physical health, working through a series of medical issues, and worked with staff to secure a local early education provider for her kids.

One of Hannah’s caseworkers was Brandy Rickaby, New Generation’s Family Services Manager was impressed with Hannah’s gentle demeanor, resilience, and noble character.

“Her positive mindset and attitude are infectious,” said Rickaby. “She’s not afraid to ask for help, yet always follows through on her goals, all while prioritizing her children. She truly embodies the mission of New Generation.”

And while Hannah has received so much from New Generation’s community, she has given so much back.

“Hannah has a unique ability to connect with those around her, offering support and empathy in every situation,” Rickaby adds. “She is a powerful reminder of the impact one’s personal mindset and action can have on the collective spirit of the organization.”

“The New Place”

Hannah’s biggest goal was working to secure permanent housing for her family. New Generation staff helped her fill out paperwork, gather documents and complete housing applications.

Three months after moving into New Generation, Hannah secured an apartment.

Stepping into their new home for the first time, she was filled with relief and gratitude. They finally have a stable roof over their heads. Her children now have a space of their own to play and beds to sleep on. Hannah has space to cook the kids’ favorite – homemade pizza and bread. And Charlie’s eyes proudly light up when he fondly calls it “the new place.”

The Path to A Big Dream Coming True

Although she no longer resides at New Generation, Hannah continues to benefit from the program through its stabilization services, which help prevent homelessness recurrence, facilitate career and educational opportunities and support paths to self-sufficiency.

“The past year has been more challenging than I could have ever imagined,” she shares. “But I feel a huge sense of relief knowing that I am leaving that old life behind me, and I have so much to look forward to.”

And she sure has a lot to look forward to. Hannah’s dream is to own a farm someday, and she is working with vocational rehabilitation to pave that path. With her love for regenerative agriculture, flowers, herbs, and animals, it’s the perfect fit.

Without the generosity of New Generation’s supporters, Hannah’s story might have ended differently.

“Last year, my life felt like it was built on a foundation of broken rocks,” she shared. “But now, New Generation and its supporters poured the concrete for the solid foundation beneath me that I can build my life upon. Every donation sows seeds of change, turning dreams into possibilities for me and other mothers like me.”