Eliza’s Story

Every family that comes Warren Village has taken a different path to get here, and each will form their own unique path once they leave.

The path that led Eliza and her children to Warren Village was one of uncertainty. Eliza quit school while she was in the 8th grade and from there, bounced around filling her time and trying to figure out what to do with her life. A few years later, Eliza was living with her mom, brother, sister and her son in a three bedroom apartment. They were about to be evicted and the family was unsure what to do or where to turn. One day, her brother learned about Warren Village and the programs it offers and suggested Eliza look into it.

The path Eliza took to get to Warren Village isn’t nearly as important as the one she took while at Warren Village. While living here and utilizing the programs offered, Eliza was able to attend CCD and receive her degree as a Certified Vet Technician, even graduating with honors and being chosen as a Student Ambassador for her class. She also was able to enroll her children in the Learning Center (providing them friendships with children their own age and a sense of stability). She also joined the LEAD group and develop a sense of independence thanks to the support and guidance of the Warren Village staff. The people at Warren Village became a family for Eliza and her family, and were able to help them grow and equip themselves for their future path. Eliza says of her time at Warren Village:

“Warren Village was part of my family’s foundation and an important stepping stone for me as an individual. Without Warren Village I wouldn’t be where I am today. Everyone at Warren Village is so helpful – each person plays a role – from the teachers to the cook in the Learning Center. Although we [residents] are all very different, each coming from different backgrounds, we are all trying to make a better life for our families.”

Today, Eliza is employed as a Certified Veterinarian Technician and Office manager for a doctor in a private practice and her children are thriving. She is part of the Homebuyers Club through Section 8 that enables her to save money towards a down payment on a house for her and her children; they are hoping to shortly make the dream of homeownership a reality. Eliza continues to remain a dedicated advocate for Warren Village and its programs, telling people she meets:

“Don’t you want a better life for yourself? Single parents are capable of doing so much with a little assistance. “