When Kemiazya first entered the FSET program, her future was far from certain. She was experiencing homelessness and living in a women’s shelter, trying to regain stability one day at a time.
Every step forward came with a challenge.
Without family nearby and without access to a vehicle, even basic tasks required careful planning. Job interviews, appointments, and classes all depended on public transportation. Every trip was a reminder of how many barriers stood between her and the life she wanted.
But even in the middle of uncertainty, one thing was clear: Kemiazya was not giving up.
Small Breakthroughs That Changed Everything
At first, progress came in small but critical ways.
Through FSET, Kemiazya received support that helped level the playing field—interview clothing, transportation assistance, and preparation for employment opportunities. These weren’t just resources. They were turning points.
Then came the first major shift.
Kemiazya secured a part-time position at Burlington Coat Factory.
It wasn’t the final destination, but it was proof that change was possible. For the first time, stability was no longer just an idea. It was beginning to take shape.
A Bigger Leap: Choosing a New Path
Just as her work life began to stabilize, Kemiazya made a life-changing decision: she would pursue a career in healthcare.
Enrolling in the CNA program at Madison College meant stepping into a demanding schedule—balancing work, school, and ongoing transportation challenges. The pressure was real, and the path ahead was anything but easy.
But she kept going, and FSET stayed with her.
When additional requirements came up outside of her CNA coursework, including CPR certification, the program continued to provide support so she could stay focused on her training instead of the barriers in her way.
Slowly, the pieces began to come together.
The Moment Everything Paid Off
After months of balancing responsibilities and pushing through obstacles, the moment arrived.
In December 2025, Kemiazya graduated from her CNA program.
What once felt distant was now real.
But her journey didn’t stop there.
Just a few months later, in March 2026, she stepped into her new role as a CNA at a health and rehabilitation center. From there, she transitioned into FSET job retention services to support her continued success in the field she worked so hard to enter.
The long climb had reached solid ground.
A Story of Persistence, Support, and Possibility
Kemiazya shares that she could not have achieved these milestones without the support of the FSET program.
Her story is a reminder of what can happen when determination meets opportunity at the right moment. From facing homelessness to building a healthcare career, Kemiazya’s journey shows that stability is possible, even when the path forward feels uncertain.
Are you determined to find for support with your employment, training, or career goals? The FSET program helps participants overcome barriers, build skills, and move toward long-term stability and meaningful employment.
