Support Black Lives in Atlanta Through Education

Every parent’s story is unique — but what they share are the odds stacked against them. For many single parents, life feels like a constant balancing act between surviving today and trying to build a better tomorrow.

Autumn, a 47-year-old mother of a 14-year-old son, has lived this reality firsthand. Once a successful chef and business owner, she spent over 20 years building her career in the culinary arts. But when she was diagnosed with lupus, everything changed. Her health declined, her business slowed, and she suddenly found herself struggling to keep a roof over her family’s head.

Despite the pain, exhaustion, and uncertainty, Autumn refused to give up. She enrolled in Southern New Hampshire University to pursue a degree in Business Administration — determined to rebuild her life. But balancing her illness, school, and the financial strain of being the sole provider became overwhelming.

That’s when H.O.P.E. Inc. stepped in.

Because of your support, Autumn received rent assistance, utility coverage, food support, and help with school expenses. This stability gave her the freedom to focus on her studies and care for her son without constant fear of losing everything.

Autumn went on to graduate Summa Cum Laude with a 3.963 GPA — and is now pursuing her MBA while developing a business concept that will serve others living with chronic illnesses.

“H.O.P.E. Inc. didn’t just help me survive; they helped me transform. You gave me space to breathe, strength to continue, and just enough hope to see my dreams through.”
— Autumn, 2025 Graduate

 

Autumn’s story is one of courage — but she’s not alone. There are many parents just like her, each facing their own set of impossible circumstances. With your help, we can continue standing in the gap to ensure those circumstances don’t overwhelm them.

Together, we can turn survival into stability — and stability into success.

Links:

• Donate Now to Support Families Like Autumn's