A New Beginning for a Growing Family

When a recent college graduate arrived at The Kearney Center, she was navigating one of the most challenging seasons of her life. After experiencing an eviction and the breakdown of a roommate living situation, she found herself unemployed, pregnant, and uncertain about what came next.

Despite these obstacles, she remained committed to creating a better future for herself and her child. Working diligently with her case manager, she connected with critical resources, including support through Angel Wings and other community partners. Along the way, she learned she was much further along in her pregnancy than expected, adding urgency to her search for stability.

A graduate of Tallahassee State College with a degree in Cybersecurity, she quickly began rebuilding. She secured employment, earned a promotion to shift manager, and was accepted to Florida A&M University to continue pursuing her goals in information technology.

Within five months, she achieved one of her biggest milestones: securing stable housing before her baby's arrival. As she prepares to welcome her child in July, she has also received generous donations of maternity and baby essentials from community supporters.

Her journey is a powerful example of resilience, determination, and the life-changing impact of a community that comes together to support those in need.

Our version of Independence Day!

Securing housing is a major milestone, but at The Kearney Center, our support doesn't end when a client receives the keys to a new home.

Before moving out, clients work with their case manager to develop a housing plan and apply for diversion assistance. Depending on individual needs, The Kearney Center may help cover a security deposit or first month's rent to reduce financial barriers to stable housing. Clients also complete a financial education program offered in partnership with Bank of America that teaches budgeting, saving, and other essential money-management skills.

To help clients get settled, we provide move-out kits assembled through community donations. These kits may include household essentials such as toiletries, food boxes, kitchen items, bedding, small appliances, and other necessities that help turn an empty space into a home.

Move-Out Kit Needs

Help us equip clients for a successful transition by donating:

• Bedding (pillows, sheets, blankets, comforters)
• Air mattresses and sleeping bags
• Bathroom and hygiene essentials
• Cleaning supplies
• Kitchen cookware, plates, bowls, and utensils
• Furniture and household furnishings
• Home décor and household items
• Nonperishable food and food boxes

You can drop off items directly at The Kearney Center or purchase needed items from our Amazon Wishlist.

Every donation helps provide comfort, stability, and hope as clients begin their next chapter.

After relocating to Tallahassee to pursue a college education, one client found himself facing unexpected financial hardship. Without a strong local support system, he lost his housing and turned to The Kearney Center for help.

Working closely with his case manager, he developed a focused plan to regain stability and build toward his future. Within just two weeks of entering the shelter, he secured employment with a local construction company. Since then, he has maintained steady work, saved money, and is actively preparing for independent housing.

Today, he continues to make meaningful progress toward his long-term dream of becoming a graphic designer, proving that a temporary setback does not have to define a person's future.