The first time I laid eyes on Matthew I knew he was a gift from God and that I would do everything in my power to be the best mom possible. At 21 years of age with only a high school diploma I knew this meant furthering my education, however, I was unsure of how to make it a reality. In 1987 Mom’s House opened its doors. I went to visit and then applied to become part of the program. It was the best thing that ever happened for Matthew and me. Because I knew Matthew was being so well cared for, I was able to earn an Associates Degree from Broome Community College and then go on for my Bachelor’s in English Education at Elmira College.
Mom’s House welcomed Matthew and me right from the very beginning and was not only an excellent day care center, but a family as well. They not only supported us as valuable human beings, but also strengthened my belief that everything happens for a reason. I learned that the true meaning of family goes well beyond biology and more importantly involves the heart. Since graduating from Mom’s House I have completed my Master’s in Education and am currently working as a program coordinator with Broome-Tioga BOCES. Fall of 2001 I will complete an administrative internship and hope to obtain a position as an assistant principal.
Without the continued support and love Matthew and I received while at Mom’s House, I truly believe I wouldn’t be where I am today. This is something that Matthew and I will treasure forever. Please know that whatever you do as a supporter of Mom’s House will be felt for generations to come. Because of your generosity, I have been able to give back to my own family and community. You are truly God’s gift and I thank you for all that you have done and continue to do.
With Love and Gratitude, Laura
This thank you comes from a different perspective. It’s not from my mom this time, it’s from me. I was one of the children of Mom’s House. It’s been 10 years now since I’ve been there and I can’t say that I remember a lot of specific things, but I can say that I know the positive impact it had and continues to have on me, my mom, and the rest of my family. Sure mom pulls out the pictures now and again, and she encourages me to watch the Mom’s House video with her occasionally, but what I really remember is the friends I made there and the way that I always felt safe. I’m old enough now to realize that that is priceless.
This past year I was fortunate enough to be a part of the Mom’s House Annual Golf Tournament with my dad. What a great way to have the opportunity to give back to the organization, which has had such a big role in helping my and my mom become who we are today. I am now able to look up to a mother who has worked hard to become who she is because a special place like Mom’s House cared enough for both of us. For that reason Mom’s House will always have a special place in my heart and I thank everyone who has touched the lives of those parents and children in need.
Matthew