A WOMAN OF FAITH AND DETERMINATION

 

 

Michelle Walker lives at the Escher Street SRO, where Volunteers of America Delaware Valley provides social services.
                   
Over a year ago, tough times brought her to the program in Trenton, NJ. But the road ahead looks brighter.

 “I give all the credit to God,” says Michelle, 54, who can certainly claim at least some credit herself. Indeed, that’s why the program at Escher recently presented her with a certificate, honoring her progress.

What happened to Michelle is a familiar story these days: After supporting herself in a home of her own for many years, she became unemployed and virtually homeless. She ended up living with her sister – and nine of her sister’s grandchildren – in a one-bedroom apartment.

Fortunately, at the Trenton Area Soup Kitchen – where she was volunteering – Michelle heard about our program at Escher Street. “Escher has helped me get back on my feet,” she says. “I appreciate it. I’m thankful I have a roof over my head. ”

 Mind you, life hasn’t exactly been easy. “I’m living on a very small amount of money,” says Michelle, who has been taking classes at Mercer County College toward a degree in criminal justice.  “I have to do without. It’s important for me to finish school.”

Although her studies were interrupted in November, when Michelle underwent heart surgery, she has a positive outlook.

She attributes her progress to faith (“God gave me another chance”) as well as the support of her family (“they have my back”). “When problems are getting to you, you have to buckle down and do something better with yourself,” she says. “I never thought I would be able to go to college. I have ended up being able to do the things I really want to do.”