Two years ago, Lameshia came to the Volunteers of America Texas Family Opportunity Center (FOC) as a single mother raising two young daughters while navigating significant health and financial hardships. She had a clear goal: build a stable future for her family through education and a career in health care.
Through perseverance, Lameshia was accepted into the Lone Star College respiratory therapy program. But each semester brought new challenges. At times, she did not have reliable transportation or consistent childcare — barriers that made it difficult to stay enrolled and keep moving forward.
With support from VOA Texas, Lameshia received tuition and book assistance, help meeting basic needs and school supplies for her children. Even so, the pressure of balancing school and parenting was intense, and she often considered leaving the program altogether.
The stress peaked during her final semester. Lameshia failed her certification exam on her first attempt, putting graduation and her career plans at risk. Instead of giving up, she leaned into additional support. VOA Texas provided study support, coaching, consistent encouragement and another test voucher so she could take the exam one more time before graduation.
This time, she passed.
In December 2025, Lameshia earned her Associate of Applied Science degree and became a certified respiratory therapist — a milestone that reflects both her determination and the impact of having the right support at the right time.
“I couldn’t have done it without God, consistent prayers and the VOA Texas staff,” Lameshia said. “My life has changed forever. I can’t say thank you enough!”