For as long as Riley* can remember, she rarely unpacked her boxes when she moved.

Living in foster care, Riley moved from home to home. As a result, she never trusted she could put down roots in one place, so she always left her belongings packed.

When Riley turned 18 and aged out of foster care, she tried living on her own. After a few months, she wanted and needed more support.  

Riley came to our Independent Living Program, but not without her doubts. “I kind of was expecting to just leave,” she admits. “I had very little faith.”  

After a few days, her KyUMH case manager, Destiney, noticed something — Riley still hadn’t unpacked her boxes.

Nevertheless, Destiney, Riley’s therapist, and other staff members continued to care for and support Riley. They talked about long-term goals and helped her work through mental health challenges.  

Riley realized that the people surrounding her genuinely cared about her and wanted to see her succeed. “KyUMH is very different than other agencies I have been with,” says Riley. “It’s nice to know that there’s always a person to call. Not many people are like that.”

After about two months with us, we celebrate that Riley unpacked all of her boxes!  

The consistent support she found at KyUMH helped Riley recognize that putting down roots isn't all bad.

“I know it sounds simple, but I am proud of staying in one place,” says Riley, “And just giving calmness a chance.”  

Today, Riley is working a part-time job in a bakery and studying sociology and nursing. She spends her free time reading and crocheting. She hopes to one day become a travel nurse and help others.

“When [their] basic needs are met, young people can focus on growth and their personal well-being.” says Destiney.

There are many youth across Kentucky like Riley who have been affected by abuse, neglect, and trauma. They need their basic needs met so that they can thrive, not just survive.  

Thank you for helping Riley build the confidence she needed to unpack her boxes. Please give today to help more young people receive life-changing care across Kentucky.  

*Riley is a pseudonym. Stock photos are used to protect client's identity.