In 1998, Tara was receiving Medicaid and Food Assistance Program benefits (FAP) to help make ends meet. In April 2000, she applied to the Ingham County FIA for cash assistance, when she had to end her employment at a child care center.

In September 2000, Tara returned to work at her previous place of employment. In addition to receiving Family Independence Program (FIP) benefits, Medicaid and FAP, the Ingham County FIA supported her work efforts by supplying child day care benefits. Through her own initiative, Tara acquired Section 8, low-income housing and arranged for a day care provider.

Tara’s hard work quickly paid off. In November 2000, her FIP case closed due to her earnings. Her household continued to receive FAP, Medicaid and child day care.

In May 2001, Tara obtained employment with Meijers’s Warehouse. She worked there for over a year and received several pay increases. However, in September 2002, Tara decided to leave Meijer to pursue other employment, because her work hours had been reduced and health benefits were not included as part of her benefits package. She wanted to be able to provide more for her family.

In September 2002, Tara obtained employment as a nurses assistant with Mid-Michigan Dialysis in East Lansing. Her FAP case closed in August 2003, due to her increased earnings. Currently, Tara is a Patient Care Technician, works 40 hours per week and receives health benefits.

Tara’s family is very supportive. Her mother, father, and stepmother have provided encouragement and emotional support. Additionally, her stepmother also cares for Tara’s children while Tara is working.

The Reach Out Christian Center, Tara’s church, has also provided a great deal of assistance. They have helped by supplying diapers for one year and Christmas gifts and clothing for her children through their Helping Hands program.

This spring, Tara will begin attending Lansing Community College to pursue a degree in nursing. She plans to continue working at Mid-Michigan Dialysis full-time and attend school part-time. Tara’s goal is to complete the registered nursing program in four years.