Desiree Richardson: In her own words
Desiree Richardson, a SNAP (Food Stamp) and SkillUP participant, shares her story, in her own words:
Before I found out about the SkillUP program I was completely lost, being a single mother of five boys. I was working as a CNA and life was hard; I had no family to help watch my kids so I could work full time.
I have always wanted to be a nurse, but I did not see how that was possible for me. How would I afford it? Who would watch my kids? And how would I pay for childcare?
When I met my SkillUP coach from the Hannibal Job Center, all my doubts went out the window quickly. She reassured me that it was possible to advance my career and there were resources available to someone like me. When she told me that there were funds available to help with school expenses and childcare, I realized that there was hope for a girl like me.
I had heard of the LPN program at Hannibal LaGrange University, from a friend. My SkillUP coach helped me apply for school, as well as resources to pay for tuition and childcare, while attending classes. I learned a lot about myself: I was smart, capable, and determined. My coach was in the background the entire time, rooting me on, providing more resources and encouraging me. Having a mentor proved to be valuable in my journey.
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After six months of pre-requisites, and 10 and a half months of LPN coursework, I graduated the LPN program July 8, 2021. When trying to get approved to take the Missouri state boards, I had to wait seven weeks to get approved due to some barriers from my past. Instead of studying I obsessed over having to wait. I failed my boards the first time. My SkillUP coach called and spoke life into me. She got me in contact with tutors, and a prep program, with a personal coach. I studied for 45 days and on October 20, 2021, I passed my Missouri state boards and became a nurse! give up when I first failed, but my coach changed my mind. Without this program, I wouldn’t have a license, a career that allows me to care for my kids, or stability. I could not have gone to school, or paid my bills without the person who stuck by my side the whole time. Thank you so much for helping me, believing in me, and giving me a chance to provide stability for my family! I am forever grateful.
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Read more SkillUP Success Stories.
This publication/program is supported by the Administration for Children and Families (ACF) of the United States (U.S.) Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as part of a financial assistance award by ACF/HHS. The contents are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement, by ACF/HHS, or the U.S. Government.
The SkillUP program is Missouri’s employment and training program for Food Stamp (SNAP) recipients. The program is funded through the United States Department of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service. The program is also funded through the Administration for Children and Families, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families block grant.
Additional Resources
- The Mo Services Navigator helps you easily search statewide for programs and services you may need.
- The Missouri Resource Guide lists resources available in Missouri to help you and your family move towards a healthier, more stable future.
- The DSS Events Calendar lists job fairs, hiring events, and other scheduled opportunities that may be of interest to you.
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