The oppportunity to rebuild

One of the most devastating consequences in the domino effect of homelessness is when children fall behind academically.

Before Brooklyn arrived at ACCESS Shelter last year, she and her two children had been living out of their car to flee from domestic violence. The desperate situation had taken a toll. The kids were falling behind in school.

“When a mother is searching for safety, without reliable transportation or access to school supplies, education can quickly become secondary,” says ACCESS (Akron Citizens Coalition for Emergency Shelter and Services) Executive Director Jackie Hemsworth.

She explains their mission addresses this by removing as many barriers as possible so kids can focus on learning and simply being kids.

“For children experiencing housing instability, staying on track academically can feel overwhelming,” she adds. 

Structure, Stability, Support

Though Brooklyn felt defeated by her family’s situation, at ACCESS she found more than a just a safe place, including three meals a day and a bed to call their own. She was connected with supportive workshops and resources designed to heal and rebuild, while her children were given the structure and stability they sorely needed. Staff helped to enroll the kids back in school and equipped them with new backpacks and school supplies in time for the school year. 

“They began to rediscover the daily routine activities many of us take for granted, like after-school snacks and completing homework in a quiet, secure space,” says Jackie. “We want every child to walk into school feeling confident and prepared. Something as simple as choosing their own backpack or having new shoes can make a big difference in how they see themselves.”

Providing an umbrella of essential care has proven successful for Brooklyn and her children. Her 12-year-old daughter went from being behind academically to achieving an impressive 3.8 GPA during her first semester back.

“The end” of this story is an example of the transformation that takes place at ACCESS. Brooklyn got a job and, working closely with her case manager, found a three-bedroom home, where the family has remained stable ever since.

How You Can Help

Stories like this one happen every day at ACCESS, which is why Jackie is thrilled to announce they have just launched the Learning Without Limits fundraising campaign. This inspiring initiative is dedicated to a powerful idea—that every child deserves a chance to succeed in school, no matter their circumstances.

“Our goal is to raise $45,000 to support the educational needs of children living at the shelter,” she says. “More than half of our residents are children. When we support them academically, we’re giving families the space and opportunity to rebuild their lives.”

This past month, more than 75 people in families were waiting for a space to open at ACCESS. Community support is vital.

Donations to Learning Without Limits help remove the everyday barriers that can stand in the way of stability. A gift of any size can make a meaningful difference—whether it helps cover a housing application fee, a prescription copay, childcare costs, or a bus pass to work or school.

“Supporting our campaign comes at a crucial time, investing in a child’s future before the next school year begins,” says Jackie. “In essence, you’re helping children like Brooklyn’s believe their circumstances do not define what they can achieve. I invite anyone in the community to come take a tour and see what we’re all about.”

ACCESS is a 501(C)3 non-profit organization that has fought to end homelessness for women and children since 1984. Make tax-deductible donations online to the Learning Without Limits campaign now through the end of August. Call ahead to schedule a tour during business hours.

ACCESS Shelter

230 W. Market Street, Akron 

330-376-0997 

ACCESS-Shelter.org