The Pathway of Hope provides individualized services to families with children. This national initiative is applied creatively in the Army’s four U.S. territories based on local circumstances and the physical, psychological, and spiritual needs of the families involved.

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My name is Sarah, and I am the mother of four. Last year, I found myself using drugs and living in a motel with only disability payments each month. That paid my rent and left me with fifty dollars for the month to live on. I was tired, broke, and didn’t know what I was going to do. So, I called The Salvation Army looking for help with food. 

I met with Felicia, the case manager, and we started talking. I told her about my situation and the struggle I was faced with every day. Felicia completely understood and didn’t judge me. I told Felicia what I needed, and she told me about the Pathway of Hope (POH) Program. It sounded like a dream and at that point, I was willing to try anything. 

Both of us started looking for an apartment. I found one I liked and was able to move in. Then it was time to find a job. Felicia suggested I apply to one of The Salvation Army Thrift Stores. I did, and I was hired. The next step was to get my driver’s license and a car. I wasn’t sure what I needed to do to make that happen, so I called Felicia and she guided me step by step on what needed to be done first. And now I have a valid driver’s license.

I graduated from the POH program, and I am now a security guard full time and will be driving real soon. Thanks to the Salvation Army, Felicia Meyer, and the POH Program for changing my life.