My name is Shekena Bailey and I have two children. My daughter Kenaj is five years old and son N’vaj is 3 years old. When I first arrived at Rockford MELD in December 2015, I was at a breaking point in my life. Mentally, emotionally, and physically I was broken! I had just had my second child, lost my job, home, car and almost my mind. A young woman who once had it all together and somehow almost lost it all. Life made no sense and I was losing my sense of direction.
I learned of MELD from a friend but I didn’t think they could help me. To my surprise MELD extended the hand I needed most. They accepted me and my children as if we were a part of the family.
Since I’ve been in the program, I live in a beautiful home and currently have a good job which enables me to provide for my family. All I needed was an opportunity to enhance what I potentially wanted to become.
Rockford Meld is an organization dedicated to helping individuals who are in need of second chances. Throughout this journey, my case manager Ms. Theresa has truly been an “Angel” on earth for me and my children. I am so thankful to be a part of the program under her guidance. She inspires me to be the BEST person I can be. She has taught me how to set goals and positively work towards achieving them.
I have learned how to manage money better which enables me to pay all my bills in a timely manner. I honestly don’t know where I’d be right now if it was not for the opportunity from MELD. They’ve helped me significantly with every aspect of my life.
This year the holidays were priceless because of the generosity of MELD and it’s many donors. The agency also provided the funds for me to successfully complete a Pharmacy Technician Certification course at Rock Valley College. I am scheduled to take the board exam in May 2016 and once I pass it there are already a few job opportunities in my path. MELD has taught me “When life hands you lemons, you learn to make lemonade”. Once again, this program is truly a blessing and being a part of it has been a privilege!
Thank you tremendously for helping young parents like me to find purpose again in life.