Marcella is on her way to becoming a Registered Nurse—a goal she’s worked toward with dedication and heart. A single mother and student at St. Clair County Community College, Marcella is set to graduate from the nursing program next year. She balances school, parenting, and part-time work with the help of two key programs: the Young Professionals Program and PATH.
Understanding that nursing students are often discouraged from working full time, Marcella applied for cash assistance to help cover living expenses. The Young Professionals Program stepped in to cover the cost of her books and uniforms, important tools for any nursing student.
When her car broke down unexpectedly, Marcella worried it would stop everything she had worked hard to achieve. Nursing students aren’t allowed to miss clinical days, and even one absence could have meant leaving the program. Thanks to support through PATH, which covered the cost of the repairs, she was able to keep her car on the road and stay on track in school.
“I have no extended family or extra help,” she said. “Getting the car repaired meant I was able to continue getting my son to daycare, and myself to work and school.”
Marcella is grateful for the support she’s received and often encourages others to reach out to Michigan Works! “All the staff are helpful and know about the area’s resources,” she said. Her story is just one example of how Macomb/St. Clair Michigan Works! programs can empower people to stay on track and move toward their goals.
Looking ahead, Marcella hopes to start a support group for single mothers in the community—a welcoming space for women to share encouragement and resources while raising their children.
Explore the Young Professionals Program
Support is available for youth and young adults working toward their education and career goals. Learn more about the Young Professionals Program here.
