When Leah first moved to Alcona County the family lived in a tent. Later, they moved into an old travel trailer located on her father's property. With the assistance of a parent aide from the Alcona County FIA, Leah began an intensive search for more secure housing. Finally, on May 15, 2001, they located a home. State emergency relief funds covered the security deposit and first month's rent and FIA prevention services provided the resources to purchase household items.

Over the years Leah has worked at a variety of jobs to support her family. She has done migrant work, child care and a stint as a parts worker in a manufacturing plant. In September 2000, Leah found part-time employment at the Greenbush Tavern as a salad maker. Despite always being able to find consistent employment, Leah realized she was working hard but never getting ahead. She determined that the best way to improve her marketability was to enhance her job skills. When she was referred to the Work First program to improve her employment skills she was committed to making the most of every opportunity.

Through Work First, Leah attended job search and job readiness classes. Later, she was placed at a Community Work Experience Placement site to build further employment skills. In addition, Leah's Work First Provider, Northeast Michigan Consortium supported her efforts by providing money for car insurance and car repairs. They also supplied clothing vouchers so Leah could purchase interview clothing.