Announcement
When Leidy arrived in the United States in June 2024, she brought with her a sense of hope and determination to provide a better life for herself and her two children. A widow and refugee from Guatemala, Leidy faced the formidable challenge of starting anew in a foreign country. In her first months in Atlanta, she confronted the complexities of adjusting to a new language, unfamiliar systems, and the emotional toll of displacement, while striving to create a stable environment for her children.
In the face of these challenges, Leidy found vital support from the International Rescue Committee (IRC) and one of its steadfast partners, Trinity Presbyterian Church, whose commitment to helping families on the brink of eviction made a significant impact on Leidy's journey.
Although Leidy was enrolled in employment services and was diligently seeking work, her Match Grant funds, designed to assist new refugees during the early stages of resettlement were exhausted quickly. While the grant had been enough to cover her rent for October, it fell short of covering her utility bills. Additionally, a theft of her food stamp benefits left her without the necessary resources to feed her children, forcing her to rely on IRC’s emergency cash assistance to meet their immediate needs.
It was at this critical moment that Trinity Presbyterian Church, a long-time supporter of IRC’s mission, stepped in. Their emergency housing support enabled Leidy to bring her utility bills up to date and, more importantly, ensured that she and her children could remain in their home, providing the stability she needed to continue her efforts toward self-sufficiency.
Despite these setbacks, Leidy’s resolve has remained unshaken. Upon her arrival, she immediately enrolled in English as a Second Language (ESL) classes, showing a strong commitment to mastering the language and improving her ability to navigate daily life. Over time, her language skills have steadily improved, providing her with more confidence and independence as she integrates into her new community.
Today, Leidy works full-time as a housekeeper at a Hilton hotel. This position not only provides financial stability for her family but also offers her a sense of pride and accomplishment. She values being part of a team and is determined to continue her professional development within the hospitality industry. Her ambition is evident as she seeks opportunities to take on more responsibility and expand her career.
Leidy’s story is a testament to the resilience of refugees and immigrants who, despite the many obstacles they face, remain steadfast in their pursuit of a better life. Her journey also underscores the profound impact of community partnerships. At IRC, we know that rebuilding a life after displacement requires more than just financial support. It demands a strong, interconnected network of individuals and organizations working together to create sustainable, long-term solutions.
Through the support of Trinity Presbyterian Church and IRC, Leidy is not only stabilizing her family’s future but also laying the foundation for a brighter, more self-reliant life. We are proud to stand beside her as she continues to build the life she envisioned upon her arrival.
Join Us in Supporting Families Like Leidy’s
Leidy’s success story is made possible through the collective efforts of compassionate organizations, dedicated individuals, and community partners. But there are still many families like hers who need your support. You can make a difference by contributing to the IRC’s work and ensuring that more families are given the tools, resources, and opportunities to rebuild their lives.
To learn more about the work of the IRC in Atlanta and for information on how you can get involved with the IRC as a donor or volunteer, please contact Development Director, Heloise Ahoure, at Heloise.Ahoure@rescue.org or 678-636-8941.
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