I am Women’s Bean Project: Kayla

This story discusses substance use.

Before starting at WBP, I was just a single mom struggling with stability in many aspects of my life. Although I had a job – it wasn’t stable and a very toxic environment. I didn’t have stable housing and my support was very little. Since starting at the Bean five months ago I have found stability and even gotten into stable transitional housing program for single moms. I have gained a lot of confidence in myself, and I am surrounded by wonderful women who support me tremendously. I’ve gained some amazing friends who I hope to grow with and have lasting friendships with. Being at the Bean gives me a sense of security and peace. It’s not just a job to me-it’s my community. I truly believe in myself and what I can do- and I have people cheering me on as I grow. These last five months I have made so much progress in my life. I Recently started training in shipping and as a lead- something that makes me feel accomplished to be trusted to do. I’ve gained the courage to go back to cosmetology school once graduating to pursue my career in hair. The Staff and participants are all amazing people who I trust and truly care about. I’ve felt secure in speaking about my traumas and addiction because no one has ever made me feel judged for any of it. I can truly be myself here- and I love every second of it. I can’t even imagine where I would be right now without this amazing program or the beautiful women who I am happy to call my best friends. They make life so much easier- even when things don’t feel so great.