After years of struggling with addiction, Jessica is celebrating three years sober and starting her education journey thanks to support from a local family’s scholarship.
Since 2022, the Allen Family Scholarship has helped graduates and participants of Volunteers of America Mid-States’ (VOA) programs achieve their educational goals.
The scholarship was started by Deann Allen and her children following the passing of her husband, James Allen. James was a Clay County High School teacher, a passionate advocate for lifelong learning and a dedicated supporter of VOA.
Jessica found sobriety at Freedom House, VOA’s residential recovery program for pregnant and parenting women. She entered the program with her infant daughter, Ellie, and learned tools to become a successful, sober mom. After leaving the program, Jessica’s recovery journey was derailed after the unexpected death of her daughter. At just five months old, Ellie passed and Jessica relapsed.
“After the hospital told me they couldn’t save her, I went straight out and got high,” Jessica said.
Her addiction controlled her life until she found out she was pregnant again, this time with twins. Her sons, Rider and Ryan were born on November 2, 2023. Jessica returned to Freedom House determined to maintain her sobriety and build a healthy, hopeful life for herself and her sons.
“Through recovery, I’ve been given a second chance and I’m doing everything I can with it,” Jessica said.
While in the program, Jessica discovered her passion for helping others who are struggling with addiction. The Allen Family Scholarship has given Jessica the opportunity to pursue her education and build a career from supporting individuals in recovery.
“I want to work with people in recovery because I have that lived experience,” she said.
Today, Jessica is enrolled at Somerset Community College and is pursuing a degree in human services. She plans to transfer to Eastern Kentucky University and become licensed as an American Sign Language interpreter.
“I’m staying committed to school and I’m showing up every single day as the best mom I know how to be,” Jessica said. “For the first time in a long time, I’m not just surviving. I’m building a life that I’m truly proud of.”
Learn more about Freedom House and how VOA is supporting women in recovery at www.voamid.org.
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