Linda* is a deaf single mother of three who has struggled to provide for her family since her youngest child’s father was incarcerated. She receives no child support and supports her kids on her own. Although she communicates in American Sign Language and in written English, navigating the system of formal and community resources has been extremely challenging for her.
When we arrived, the family was living in darkness in multiple rooms. Her oldest son Joseph* had no table, desk, or flat surface to do his homework. There was nowhere to sit except an old couch with no cushions. The family had very little clothing and was sleeping on old mattresses and linens. In meeting Lydia, she seemed defeated, yet has made do for a year with what little they have without ever asking for anything.
*Names changed for confidentiality