As we reflect on this year’s milestones, one story shines brightly—a story of courage, transformation, and advocacy that touched hearts on Capitol Hill this June. Thrive was honored to represent Florida at “Babies Go to Congress,” an extraordinary event hosted by Heartbeat International. This moment allowed us to demonstrate the life-changing impact of our work and share the voices of those whose lives have been profoundly transformed. One such voice belonged to a young mother whose journey embodies resilience and hope.
She was just 19 when she found out she was pregnant. Homeless and alone, she had escaped an
abusive household at 17, only to find herself couch-hopping, clinging to survival while juggling two
jobs and college. She had no stability, no safety, and no place to call home; she grappled with the
weight of bringing a baby into such uncertainty. In her desperation, she turned to her son’s father,
hoping for a family. But instead of stability, she found herself trapped in a cycle of toxic abuse. The
physical and emotional violence escalated to the point that her friend’s parents had to intervene to
protect her and her unborn child. She feared for her life and for the fragile life growing inside her.
When she gave birth, she was alone. Alone in a hospital bed, holding her newborn, she felt broken
and helpless, convinced she had failed her son. Then, a glimmer of hope appeared. A friend told her
about Thrive, and despite her fear and self-doubt, she reached out. That single decision changed everything.
A Lifeline of Transformation
The day she walked into Thrive, she described it as stepping out of the darkness and into the light. For the first time in years, she felt safe. Thrive gave her more than just shelter; it gave her stability, education, and the chance to reclaim her life. Slowly, she began to heal—not just from the pain of her past but from the belief that she wasn’t worthy of hope or a future.
On Capitol Hill this summer, she bravely stood before lawmakers and shared her story. She spoke of how Thrive provided the strength and resources to break free from the chains of abuse and create a better life for her son—a life filled with safety, love, and opportunity. With every word, she reminded us all of the incredible resilience of the human spirit and the power of compassion to transform lives.
Advocating for Life and Change
Her testimony, along with the stories of many others, showcased the essential role organizations like Thrive play in breaking cycles of despair. As we met with representatives and senators, we advocated not just for resources but for the belief that every mother and child deserves the chance to thrive.
As this remarkable year comes to a close, we hold her story close to our hearts. It fuels our mission to restore hope, break barriers, and empower families for generations to come. Thank you for walking alongside us as we celebrate these victories and look forward to the work ahead. Together, we are creating a legacy of love and resilience, one mother and child at a time.
