A Chance to Start Again

When Porsha moved her family from St Louis to Columbia for her kids to have better opportunities and community, she had no idea how their lives were about to change.

Their housing was lined up.

Her full time job was ready to start.

All four of her kids were enrolled in school.

But their housing plans fell through, and the only other option was to stay in a hotel while searching for a new home. As Columbia’s average weekly rate hotel stay is $400, their living expense more than depleted her savings - even with a full time job.

The family is currently staying in an Extra Mile transitional home, and they moved in just in time for Christmas! Ten First Baptist Church members generously spent time cleaning, furnishing, and decorating the home, while other members cooked food to stock up the kitchen.

As part of the Extra Mile Homes program, Porsha is participating in weekly budget sessions with a coach to grow her money management skills and save 30% of her income to pay for her future rental deposit. She has her CNA license, and her goal is to become an RN.

When Porsha walked through the home before moving in their belongings, she tearfully said, “You have no idea what I've been through... Thank you! I haven’t had my own bed in so long."

We are incredibly thrilled to welcome the family to one of our homes this Christmas season!