Sheeba: Pursuing her dreams

As a teen Sheeba entered foster care because of an abusive home environment. Stressed and frustrated by the system, she didn’t think she’d graduate high school and couldn’t imagine what was next.

Sheeba always dreamed of a career in medicine – a dream that now felt unreachable. Without stable housing, reliable transportation or knowledge of how to wade through college application and scholarships, Sheeba was at a loss.

Our team supported Sheeba to enroll in community college and move in with her older sister through our subsidized host housing program.

“B:E showed me my options. If it wasn’t for B:E, I wouldn’t be in college,” Sheeba shared with me.

Sheeba met with Lakita, our host housing coordinator, monthly while she was in our housing program. Lakita supported this resilient young woman to resolve family disputes, balance work and school, and navigate the foster care system. To maintain her status in the program, Sheeba had to either work or pursue school. She said this requirement “put her in the habit” of prioritizing her education.

“Lakita held me accountable and helped show me that my hard work would pay off,” Sheeba says.

With a place to call home and B:E support, Sheeba has found peace of mind. As she approaches her 24th birthday, she is working as a behavioral therapist for autistic children and completing classes toward her nursing degree.

“B:E was always there for me. Having their services beyond foster care helped me become independent,” Sheeba says.