Christian

35 years old

African-American woman
Three member household

About Christian

Christian lives in Indianapolis with her two children and her aging father. She works part-time as an elderly caregiver and attends evening classes at the local community college, hoping to earn her healthcare degree. Every Saturday, Christian walks to the local food pantry to pick up groceries that help her family get through the month. She appreciates the support but struggles with feelings of shame.

Transportation and childcare are constant challenges. Without a car, Christian relies on buses or walking, carefully planning every trip to work, school, and the pantry. Childcare is inconsistent, with her father helping when he can, despite his own health struggles. Christian dreams of a better future: a reliable car, stable childcare, and a full-time healthcare job that will allow her to move to a safer neighborhood. She stays hopeful, pushing through long days for the sake of her family.

Even with the challenges, Christian remains strong and resourceful. She finds comfort in the small wins—like an A on a test or a shared family meal—and leans on her community when she can. Step by step, she’s working toward a better life.

resources

Christian’s support network is a combination of essential services, social support systems, and community resources that help her manage the demands of being a single mother, part-time worker, and student.

These resources address her needs for food security, childcare, transportation, utility assistance, and education as she works toward creating a more stable life for her family.