April Zimmerman and her daughter Gabrielle have come a very long way with a little bit of help from you. April has earned her high school diploma and is enrolling in college. After a rough start, Gabrielle is on track for success in Kindergarten.
Not long ago, despite working full-time, April struggled with the stress of economic hardship, which led to behavior problems for Gabrielle. April realized she needed to get her daughter help while pursuing an education that would lead to increased financial independence and allow her to serve as a role model to Gabrielle.
Through Trident United Way’s Links to Success initiative at Goodwin Elementary School April received emergency assistance from Tricounty Family Ministries. Meanwhile, Gabrielle brings home nutritious food for the weekend through the Lowcountry Food Bank’s Backpack Buddies program. That has stabilized home life and allowed mother and daughter to learn and grow.
April earned graduation recognition and plans to pursue a career in the medical field. In the meantime, she uses her story to encourage other parents and her own daughter. “Don’t ever give up,” she says.” United Way has a lot of resources for people in need.”