Chelsea’s Story: MAMAS

At SELF, we believe everyone has the power to achieve and sustain self-sufficiency. Chelsea’s story is a testament to resilience and the strength to overcome poverty. Through SELF’s Motherhood and Maternity Addiction Services (MAMAS) Getting Ahead program, she redefined her future and reclaimed her life.

Rediscovering Strength
Chelsea spent 14 years battling addiction, a struggle that pulled her deep into the cycle of poverty. “As you’re going through the beginning process of recovery, there is a deep, dark hole that you’ve dug yourself into and you are definitely in that cycle of poverty and trying to get out and trying to better your life,” she shared.

SELF’s MAMAS Getting Ahead program helped her do just that. It reminded her of who she was before addiction and reignited the strengths she had always carried within herself. “I’m strong, I’m independent, I’m kind. And those are some strengths that the Getting Ahead program has helped me re-identify with within myself.”

Overcoming Barriers
In less than a year, Chelsea made remarkable progress toward stability. “I got my car fixed. I got my license back. I got a job,” she said. But the road wasn’t easy. Before she had transportation, she walked a mile and a half each way to work—pushing her daughter in a stroller to daycare before continuing the uphill walk alone. “It was hard, but I’m strong. I’m independent. I could do it, and I did it.”

She also took control of her financial and legal responsibilities. “I paid off all my court fines and am working to break the cycle,” she said. But she knows that success isn’t just about getting through the day—it’s about planning for the future.

Rebuilding a Dream
Before addiction, Chelsea had a career in nursing. “I was a practicing nurse for about five years, then I suspended my own license… I thought I had lost that career forever.”

But SELF helped her think long-term and reclaim her future. “Recently, I got in contact with the nursing board… They’re going to work with me on reinstating my license.”

For Chelsea, this step is more than just a job—it’s a return to her purpose. “That is my dream. I don’t want to give up on it. I can get back to that.”

Moving Forward
Chelsea isn’t stopping now. She’s exploring SELF money management classes to secure her future. She’s also encouraging others to take the next step in their own journeys. She knows the road ahead won’t be easy, but she’s ready. “Nothing is going to stop me. I know that now. I’m determined.”

At SELF, we are honored to be part of Chelsea’s journey. Her story proves that with the right support, resources, and determination, breaking the cycle of poverty and addiction is possible.

If you or someone you know could benefit from Getting Ahead or other SELF programs, we’re here to help. Let’s build a future together.