“Jessica is so much more confident in herself now. I know she will be able to pursue all her dreams!”
When Jessica walked out of prison, she didn’t just leave behind the mistakes of her past—she stepped boldly into her future. With the support of Pathways Home and the Fox Valley Workforce Development Board, she’s rebuilding her life with grit, grace, and a clear vision for her future.
A Rough Start: Struggling with Loss and Uncertainty
Before connecting with the Pathways Home program in Winnebago County, Jessica faced significant barriers. She had lost her job and her car, and incarceration had left her with limited options. But Jessica didn’t let those setbacks define her. She knew what she needed right away:
- Reliable transportation
- Steady employment
- Proper clothing for work
Dreaming Bigger: Sobriety, Stability, and Self-Sufficiency
As she began planning, Jessica shared her dreams of staying sober and focused on finding a stable job with consistent hours. She hoped to eventually purchase a car and ultimately to reclaim her independence.
She built a roadmap that was both practical and determined. With support from Pathways Home, Jessica focused on:
- Job searching and securing employment
- Attending meetings at Solutions Recovery
- Applying for assistance through WETAP, Wisconsin’s Employment Transportation Assistance Program
Remarkable Results in Record Time
Jessica’s progress was nothing short of incredible. Within just one week of release, she landed a job. Pathways Home stepped in to provide:
- Work clothes and shoes
- A bus pass for immediate mobility
- Gas cards to help her sustain her new position
Even more exciting—just 20 days after submitting her WETAP application, Jessica was approved and able to purchase a car. This milestone marked a major leap toward long-term independence.
A New Chapter: Goals for a Brighter Future
Jessica isn’t done yet. With renewed confidence and the structure she’s built around her recovery and career, her next goals are to secure her own home and gain full-time custody of her daughter.
A True Transformation: Confidence, Honesty, and Hope
Jessica is known for her honesty, her no-nonsense attitude, and her kind heart. She’s not afraid to tell it like it is—but behind her straightforward nature is someone deeply committed to change. Over time, those who worked with Jessica saw a powerful shift:
“Jessica is so much more confident in herself now. I know she will be able to pursue all her dreams!”
Jessica’s story is a reminder that with the right support, people can overcome extraordinary odds. Thanks to Pathways Home, the Fox Valley Workforce Development Board, and Jessica’s own determination, a second chance has turned into a powerful new beginning.
