Melissa Fonseca: Part 1 - FIRSTHAND: Living in Poverty

[@wttw]

Watch the full season of FIRSTHAND: Living in Poverty: kzbin.info/www/bejne/Y4m8hXyrfaplncU And watch the entire FIRSTHAND series: www.youtube.com/watch?list=PLs3qXjCE-VeQ6tn6Lc2_fMiaYSc-DKxnG&index=1

[@moa3008]

I don’t understand why some of these wealthy residents living in her area don’t seek to help this young woman who is working in the hospitality industry struggling to stay afloat paying rent to keep a roof over her head; perhaps some of these wealthy neighbors could help her financially by paying her rent for at least one year; and establish a go fund me drive to raise money for a new vehicle with any leftover money for auto insurance!

[@moa3008]

I don’t understand why some of these wealthy residents living in her area don’t seek to help this young woman who is working in the hospitality industry struggling to stay afloat paying rent to keep a roof over her head; perhaps some of these wealthy neighbors could help her financially by paying her rent for at least one year; and establish a go fund me drive to raise money for a new vehicle with any leftover money for auto insurance!

[@missbell1634]

We all grew up poor but didn’t know it bc our parents made poor look normal❤️

[@maryrobinson4572]

So so true, my mom worked 3 jobs just to make ends meet

[@ltkozaczka]

Amen!

[@roshelltannen9698]

Fuck that. We started in the middle class, and my family fell apart (like too many families unfortunately) and I knew we were poor.

[@davidreyes1336]

Naw, my parents always reminded me we were poor. We still are.

[@mermaidlu5125]

Well I knew it because my friends had better stuff and dressed better than me

[@cs2922]

It broke my heart when she stated that she didn’t feel smart enough to go back to school. You can definitely do it sis! It’s not even necessarily about smarts, it’s about determination 😁💪🏼

[@DB-xo6xh]

That’s the kind of thing that gets drilled into your head by parents, relatives and bitter teachers. Sad.

[@KP-fl7hr]

Absolutely this!!! I really hope she goes for it. I thinks she is a wonderful mom and speaks so well and empathically.

[@youre1stcat286]

I'm in poverty myself and when I say I'm not smart enough for school it's because if I fail it's a waste of money and then I have debt I cant pay off.

[@monharris28]

yeah, i teach at a community college and i see students like her all the time--so unsure of themselves

[@bnwo]

that's it right there

[@karasimon6766]

Girl, don’t be down. 17 years is a long time for a very loyal and hard working employee. You have done more than lots of people. Do not give up or think you are less than. I admire your work ethic and loyalty.

[@BrVi_7]

These days it's kinda past due to be so loyal to a company that would turn around and fire you tomorrow. Also the fact that is was a huge slap in the face about the minimum wage and her pay. Most big companies like Walgreens are more interested in paying whoever will take the job a least as possible, not having people move up and stay with the company a long time and therefore pay them accordingly. Being loyal to a company isn't much of a virtue and I think we all saw that in the pandemic.

[@lust4lyfe101]

Loyalty used to matter at a company back in the day, now they don’t care cuz you are easily replaceable. I had one job for 6 years and on the 6th year cause I didn’t know better cause this was my first job I asked for a raise as I was never late for work and was a high performer . And they said they will put my raise on the next pay which was literally 1 penny raise. I went and spoke to management and flat out told me “if you can find something better you can go”. Ever since than I have never been loyal to any company as I learned the second you die that they won’t mourn you but instead filling your spot.

[@beverlystaley9698]

Yes!! She is a loyal worker & a terrific mom who is setting a good example for her children. I hope she gets through this. She deserves a break & certainly deserves a raise!! ❤

[@daniellamoreno3616]

I agree alot too unfortunately in this situation you end up on gov. Benefits.

[@daniellamoreno3616]

@@lust4lyfe101 Thats so messed up its so true!!

[@chrissyginger60]

I just got my bachelors degree while part of the time homeless during the pandemic with 2 jobs. No time to sleep. My starting point was negative 10 meaning no home and relying on the bus. My vision is bigger than my circumstances. Never give up you can rest a bit but never give up. The degree will open more doors.

[@nataliem5054]

Congratulations

[@carmenmarie5975]

Congratulations to you! I wish you the very best.

[@chrissyginger60]

@@nataliem5054 Thank you

[@chrissyginger60]

@@carmenmarie5975 Thank you

[@TheChinkyell]

It's harder with kids you need to support

[@zoeykillah]

Photo specialist but basically still a cashier. I hate jobs that pretend to promote you because there is nothing more to offer

[@ecclairmayo4153]

Yup, they just need people to move around the store. Cross trained on everything.

[@jennifertackett2241]

And yet, she's been there 17 years...never making an effort to go back to school, get a better education or a better job, and still having more children along the way. She already receives help with housing and childcare, and has been for years. Her current situation is not the fault of her employer.

[@bre4659]

17 years I was hoping she was gonna say manager

[@marimarujaa7818]

@@jennifertackett2241 unfortunately everything you are saying is the truth we cannot become complacent we have to become educated and break our generational curses that have been instilled in us

[@CM-oy2kd]

Fax

[@temle7489]

I flipped burgers, did package sorting jobs, commuted 1 hour 1 way to college (dorm too expensive), took a student loan, English is not my native language but I was able to get my degree in bioscience with a minor in chemistry. I didn't have the best grades (probationary at one point) and took me 5 years but I made it. Now I am earning 45 $ an hour excluding overtime in a biotech company here in the SF area. Just keep on pushing. There will be sweat, tears, and blood but once you crossed that finished line it will be the most rewarding experience you will ever have! Good luck

[@Alie95]

Thank you for this I’m so close to getting my certificate and associates degree going to be striving for my bachelors and hopefully I can obtain it before 30-32

[@alien2girl07]

@@Alie95 Well done!

[@keishalynn7820]

💙

[@MrAlstun]

Thank you Jesus

[@F95GHomestead]

How much did you have to pay in schooling and loans tho....

[@lelabrooks04]

I hope she is instilling more into her children. Especially the senior. If college isnt for him maybe a trade. Some sort of skilled training.

[@beccasmithers2672]

@Rodent's Revenge [MGTOW] I disagree. I mean trades are good but so is college if u can afford to go

[@roshelltannen9698]

Yeah right. All of her kids will have illegitimate kids just like her. Baby Mamas like to hold on to the hope "my kids will do better", but kids often do what they see not what they're told.

[@juanshaftpatel7488]

how can she? shes a failure 17 years still making no money

[@raytas9140]

@Rodent's Revenge [MGTOW] college don’t have to be if you have a game plan. Not everything will get you where u need to be in trade

[@loisaustin6200]

Talk him into going into the Air Force or Navy. My son joined the Navy and stayed in for 24 years, he swears it was the best decision he ever made. He went in as a low morale kid who was headed for trouble and after boot camp came home a gentleman full of pride.

[@thetenthltr]

When I was in highschool, my grandmother told me to "protect my womb at all costs". She'd say "There is no good excuse to bring a whole other person into the world without two parents under the same roof with the same last name. Marriage is no guarantee, but neither is a seatbelt". 😂❤️❤️ I hope this family is able to get on solid ground. This type of struggling is mentally and physically detrimental.

[@tigana]

Agreed

[@mydogsteppedona4431]

What is it with older ladies always dropping gems. Growing up my mother also brought us up making sure, espcially the girls know the importance of education. She didn't even graduate high school and she had children when she was very young (it's a cultural thing and she was married too at a younger age) even my dad was married very young and had a child. But my dad finished his higher education my mom didn't see the point, she had us after marrying my dad. But she made sure all of us know how important it is to learn.

[@cac2821]

Society has changed. People as a whole have changed. Your grandmother is a smart woman. I was a single teen mother of a son and although it’s not easy, it can be done. I don’t think the concept of just married people bringing children into the world is the only way for a good outcome. There’s many people out here that come from single parent homes that seen poverty, etc and strive harder than the next that did come from a good home. My son is now 19 and graduated from high school with honors and student of the year. He knows the struggle and he knows how he has to strive harder in education and for work. Do I want my children to repeat what I did? No. Has my son? No. Will my daughter? No. Does a situation make a person? Only if the person allows it. What people go through doesn’t mean they can’t overcome it. I was a teenage mom that came from the bottom and now I am an older woman that never gives up. I took my past and I am utilizing it for a better future hence I am working towards my MBA with previous tenure as a Senior Representative at a financial institution. We are one of the main things that hold ourselves back and just because things are a certain way one day, doesn’t mean it’ll be that way the next.

[@calibean7736]

Absolutely right. But you said it a little more gently than I did 😏

[@daw7773]

Some married men abandon their wife and children too. I see your point that it is easier to track down someone the woman was once married(e.g. Social Security) to for child support. Some of these ladies are having babies by men they have been in short term relationships and/or men with poor work ethics.

[@barbaravyse660]

The one thing these stories have in common are having too many kids when you are already in poverty. That just digs a deeper hole for yourself.

[@carolbradley4845]

I’m wondering if the strain between her mother and her was because she kept having children out of wedlock. Ladies this is a sure fire way to become impoverished and dependent on the government. I really hate seeing this.

[@briann8983]

That's only part of the story to derive at a conclusion. I am sure like all other people in relationships, she thought the relationship with these kids' father would last and she would have his support. Unfortunately, this did not happen. This creates its own set of issues and circumstances. However, no matter where you start from picking yourself up from your boot straps, your mental state and what you believe has more importance than temporary conditions.

[@mermaidlu5125]

I agree

[@thetenthltr]

When I was in highschool, my grandmother told me to "protect my womb at all costs". She'd say "there is no good excuse to bring a whole other person into the world without a dedicated family structure". "Marriage is no guarantee, but neither is a seatbelt". ❤️❤️ I hope this family is able to get on solid ground. This type of struggling is mentally and physically detrimental.

[@johnnypham2850]

@@briann8983 If you have a child out of wedlock with no contract from the Father you should certainly expect that relationship to fall apart.

[@barbaraamoroso2228]

I was a high school drop out. Went back and got a GED at 21. Thank God was able to go to a technical school in my 40’s. Became a draftsman and totally turned my life around. Education makes all the difference. Took me two years and lived in poverty raising kids all through school. I am 59 now, and so grateful for my education, but mostly Gods help. Today I do drafting from home. Even in a pandemic, I can work from home. The struggle actually made me stronger. No one wants to go through the hard times, but just never never give up.❤️❤️❤️

[@kenyonbissett3512]

You are so right. I went through the poverty thing to go to college. I graduated with honors and a very thin body, no freshmen 15lbs for me, lol. And I know a lot of people with similar stories. I would add as advice to reach out everywhere for help. I overheard a fellow nursing student talking to a friend she was really upset because she was looking at dropping out our last year because she just couldn’t make it with caring for 3 kids. Medical insurance and cash were a problem. Knowing her job paid minimum as a cna at the hospital I had an idea of her pay. I asked if I could speak to her privately and told her the state offered free medical insurance for her kids and gave her an application for a local scholarship for $1,000. She did both and later thanked me saying, the kids qualified for health insurance and the scholarship was brand new and since no one else applied and she had great need they gave her both scholarships so she got $2,000. Between the two, she graduated and move up a month later as an RN after passing her state licensing exam. So like you, her life turned around with education. And, as a nurse, all sorts of discounts opened up for her. The hospital offered better insurance coverage to nurses. Eventually she left poor quality housing and got a home in a better neighborhood and school.

[@ig4091]

Finally, someone on here talks about the most important fact Jesus Christ of Nazareth the powerful King of Kings who provides and takes care of his children, let me tell you something I also was from. Humbolt park and in poverty and struggles so much and I got out God saved me and now I walk for him and I am so blessed to be able to talk and live for Jesus Christ so there’s def hope when you give your life to Christ everything is possible ✨🔥🕊 Glory be to Jesus Christ Does anyone know how to get a hold of Melissa I would love to talk with her

[@gloriinher40s]

@@ig4091 I don't think she needs you preaching to her.

[@slumpyjoshtv125]

Glad you made it Praise the Lord💛✝️👏🏽

[@brittg1928]

🙌🙌🙌

[@angelicaortega6720]

Mama I was 40 when I went back to school to become an LPN, making $29.00/hr, single parent raising 7 children/ finally got off public assistance. In escrow right now for my first home .. I’m 45 now and second year in BSN, RN PROGRAM MAMA!! You got this

[@stephaniemillermagiccleani910]

Congratulations that’s so awesome ❤️

[@YeshuaKingMessiah]

Employable skill makes all the diff Now ur bach will be meaningful too, unlike a bach in biz, psych, Italian, music, etc

[@mpat100]

blessings and good luck for you Angelica you will make a great nurse I am sure.

[@machruk]

Ur an extraordinary woman! More power to u! Congrats and love ❤️

[@merys333]

You just convinced me to go back to school for my LPN 🎉❤❤❤

[@sabrina.natalie]

2:44 - When she said, “I don’t feel like I’m smart enough to go back to school”, that absolutely broke my heart! I’ve been there. I don’t come from a family of lawyers and doctors or architects and engineers, and the majority of the people in my family have never graduated from college. So when I enrolled in college, I often felt like the dream of graduating, having a successful career that paid generously, and having a house and a car - those dreams often felt too big for me. I can definitely resonate with that. When I was in college, I constantly struggled with feelings of: “I don’t belong here”. I eventually graduated with my undergraduate in Business Data Analytics, and I’m currently in grad school, getting my masters in Computer Science. I work in tech, and I’m doing great. I pray that she realizes that she IS smart enough to graduate college, and that education is a huge stepping stone to getting out of poverty.

[@411sponge72]

What a great comment!! I've been teaching my entire life and seeing how you overcame adversity, really makes me smile. It always makes me happy seeing students who are struggling at first, bloom into successful students and end up with a great careers! Sabrina, congratulations and I wish you the best of life in the future! 🤗👏👏👏

[@turquoisec003]

Praying for her and her family! She is so strong! People are mentioning her nails and hair 🙄. Lashes cost .99 cents... if she wants to keep her hair and nails done to make her feel good.. so what! We can’t judge her and we shouldn’t! There are layers here and my hope is that she gets a financial, professional and personal breakthrough for her and her children. ❤️

[@joyaustin6581]

Watch the pennies and the dollars will follow. Clutter is money wasted and extra calories for weight gain is money wasted.

[@Denailacole]

People do not realize that dressing for the life you want to live is VERY important. I’ll give her less than two years before she’s seeing six figures. Whether it’s through a 9to5, or a social media brand. She has the mind & drive to get it done.

[@joyaustin6581]

@@Denailacole I’m close to 6 figures and still were the $1 tshirts I bought at a thrift store. Most of us would be better off spending hair and nail money on investing for retirement. Compound interest is how the rich get richer but some of us are still focused on image.

[@ecclairmayo4153]

They just want her to walk around looking like a bag lady to make themsleves feel better.

[@renee7528]

Perhaps someone paid for her hair and nails done because she was being filmed and they wanted her to look nice. Perhaps her kids saved and gifted it to her, we don’t know all the details.

[@DivaDivaFashionista]

Where is undercover boss when you need them? This is the reality of a lot of people. Sadly even I can relate.

[@nancyb.3523]

My parents never let us kids realize how broke/ poor we were. Not until we grew up into adults. But I knew something wasn't right...I remember my mom bought a pound of ground beef for 4 people. My sister and I ate it all because we didn't eat anything all day and that ground beef was for dinner. When my dad got home, I remembered him asking my mom where dinner was and she looked at him and said it's almost ready. She made my sister and I go watch TV and when I walked in the kitchen, I saw them scraping the pan with corn Tortillas and eating that for dinner. I didn't realize that it was for all of us. I was probably 8 or 10...that stuck with me for some reason and not until I was older did I start putting puzzles together as to why I didn't ever visit a mall growing up, have new shoes, have only 1 true meal a day, and shopped at the thrift stores...to me that was all normal

[@alfiemarc8852]

you dont become rich by working for someone you become rich by your selve

[@SHAWNA499]

That’s so sad.that’s wasn’t your fault.you guys were so young.

[@maitesantos9256]

@@alfiemarc8852 its not about being rich... what does that truly even mean. Being able to buy most things you and your family want and need is not being rich... its being financially stable. Chasing "being rich" is a fools game.

[@maitesantos9256]

@@alfiemarc8852 and its self

[@alfiemarc8852]

@@maitesantos9256 dude if that is your mentality i never see you succeding in life

[@4spremilimone]

Financial education needs to be taught in school

[@jaychild78]

Exactly!!!! I know times are tough I’ve been there before and having financial education can help out a LOT!! You gotta cut out all BS you spend your money on and start paying yourself FIRST while investing. Investing in S&P 500 VOO index fund is a great start. Research and learning about finances is 🔑

[@MyThoughtzAndOpinionz]

That goes against the agenda though. The goal is to keep us poor

[@candisbrown1932]

And what good is that going to do if you never make a livable wage?

[@jaychild78]

@@MyThoughtzAndOpinionz no more excuses and this woe is me bull shit!! Go out get yours!!!!

[@TrollinOn22s]

Sex education is needed more as no one should have kids unless they're financially stable.

[@daniellincoln3744]

I'm over here crying about the strength of this mother. She's amazing

[@Stevie-oy8zj]

It’s not “ brave” or strong to be a mother in her circumstances. She set herself up for that. She made her choices to get herself into those circumstances. Don’t keep having kids or even one if you’re not in the position to afford or take care of them, or even yourself. She kept digging herself deeper and deeper into a hole and now she’s where she’s at. It shouldn’t be commended to follow this path, for anyone.

[@xoxoPilar]

Its so important to enforce in your kids that you need to either go to college, trade school, or learn a trade after high school. It’s just what needs to happen now a days

[@thehallswayy]

If you’re not getting a degree in STEM, medical, or a specialized degree in business...no point to go to college. Tired of seeing people in 60k of debt for a drama degree

[@marvenemartinez8879]

@@thehallswayy I completely agree. I didnt necessarily see myself in the STEM field but I'm glad I have the oppurtunities I do know because I chose a career in healthcare

[@truelyyourz]

Or military

[@SeansModelBuilds]

Or enlist to get into the Federal Government.

[@elmazizo3639]

I work construction I make 2,000 a week after taxes (hard heavy duty outside work) but now I’m on break and start my “forklift” warehouse job on Friday at 18$ an hour just for winter then I go back in summer

[@Jessie-uj1sm]

She should do postal work, I've been a stay-at-home mom for 10 years and got hired at FedEx starting at $15. I worked at Amazon for awhile also, great places to start since high school diploma is good enough to get those jobs.

[@preztjuswoman]

Exactly, there are options, she just chooses not to explore them.

[@flowerchild1440]

and she can go to the University of Maryland Global Campus since Amazon pays the student’s tuition fees....she would just have to pay the tech fees (max $45 per course)and can enroll in a Monthly payment plan for it

[@revnv590]

Smaller towns might not have those job opportunities. $13/hour is not that bad if the cost of living is low. My husband supports a family of 4 on $10.50/hour but cost of living in our town is pretty low.

[@Jessie-uj1sm]

@@revnv590 That's true, because I do live in Memphis, there are a lot of jobs like that here.

[@kimwarner1681]

@@preztjuswoman maybe she is exhausted. full time work, kids, running the house, she is beat. stop judging her so harshly. someone knocked her confidence down the toilet as well,.

[@stefanossmitty3318]

I heard Judge Judy say “the fastest route to poverty is single motherhood.” And here we are. I’m not “judging” this woman, but all the data has proven this to be true. For all the “children are a blessing” crowd, who exactly is it a “blessing” for? 🤷🏾‍♂️

[@caitlin8160]

It was a blessing for me...single mom for the last 14 years. I was 19 when I had my child and it changed me for the better. I now have two bachelors, college fully funded for my child, private education for her, own my own home and have lived in multiple countries with my child. I might not have gotten my act together without my blessing being born. But I was determined to not let the statistics define us.

[@stefanossmitty3318]

@@caitlin8160 I’m very happy and proud of you for doing that. Unfortunately, I used to worked in juvenile court just outside DC. 95% of the kids who came through were from single parent homes and most had no idea where their fathers were. I’m glad to hear that it does work out sometimes. Thanks for sharing.

[@CM-oy2kd]

U can’t tell them that. They will use one celebrity that made it out and use her as an excuse

[@stefanossmitty3318]

@@CM-oy2kd Right! Or they’ll say Obama was raised by a single mother 🤷🏾‍♂️

[@genxx2724]

@@stefanossmitty3318 Obama’s mother was highly educated, and her parents took on substantial responsibility to help raise him. He is not the product of American poverty.

[@moua0067]

Lessons learned here: 1. Believe in yourself and your intelligence. 2. Use birth control. 3. Pick the right partner. Not someone who is gonna leave you a single parent. 4. Get an education beyond high school. Its never too late. 5. Corporations need to pay higher wages.

[@yomamatx]

What kind of education do they look for beyond highschool diploma?

[@alfiemarc8852]

you dont become rich by working for someone you become rich by your selve

[@vaniset]

With what money is she going to get a degree can y'all stop criticizing her and be real. The only thing I agree with is having children before being financially stable. The money she makes now isnt enough to support 4 kids

[@alfiemarc8852]

@@vaniset "I agree with is having children before being financially stable" 👍🏻 does that make sense

[@ritaetchu3592]

@@vaniset yeah she could have atleast stopped at 2 especially when you see that your money is not going up

[@diamondsanglitz1]

Unlike all the other judgmental comments I would like to leave an encouraging one- I applaud you for being so brave to show what it looks like to live in poverty. Also you are absolutely correct that it is never too late to make a change. I would like to encourage her to take any night classes or weekend classes for a skill or a trade. I know it’s hard but it would be worth it in the end.

[@veronicamitchell9378]

Beautiful message. Thank you for posting.

[@jacob_gang]

Absolutely agreed! Some colleges are now offering free courses for certificate programs.

[@40bpaula]

Thank you for saying something positive. I would also encourage her to take some classes, but I think she should try to find a business she can get into. One that she would enjoy and take classes to help her learn what it takes to run your own business. that would definitely give her some pride in herself and show her kids something other than selling their time to the lowest bidder. For people of color, I think that's the best way to try and make a future for yourself and your kids.

[@jennyvigar752]

Beautiful words. It is never to late to get there. Such a determined lady wishing her and her family the best ❤

[@reereelove6426]

Absolutely!!!!!! The best comment 🙏🏽 Lords willing her change will come!

[@beccastyver]

College may not be possible but learning a trade is. I understand her struggle. I had my son when I was 18. I only had a high school diploma and qualified for minimum wage jobs. I knew there was no way I could pay bills and feed him at that wage. I went to Medical Assistant school. School and training took 9 months. I was able to get a good paying job that would support my son and myself.

[@cherylT321]

That’s awesome!

[@missdesireindependance5194]

Good for you

[@wendy-zarate]

😃 that's amazing! Good for you! :) never lose hope!

[@dericmederos1514]

I'm sorry but this "trade pays well" quote I keep seeing is just like college, a misleading claim. I worked as an electrician and got paid a 3 bucks above minimum wage. I asked my coworker who was there for 2 years, real hard worker, his pay was $19 an hour where that wouldn't even get you a single room in an apartment.

[@V.E.R.O.]

@@dericmederos1514 Does he live in NY or Hawaii? Anywhere else, he should be able to afford at least a studio with $19 an hour.

[@Krista16K]

You are smart enough to go to school! Don't let the fear of failure stop you bc you can do it! Start slow, maybe 1 online class a semester. You've got this.

[@LaDa620]

I had one child. I saw it hard it was. I said to myself I won’t have anymore until I’m financially stable. I only have a diploma. I have been homeless. I built a house 6 yes ago. I got professional licenses. That’s what changed my life. I have businesses. My son is 14. I do plan to finish college before he graduate from hs. If her mom can go back to college to change her life she can do the same. Don’t settle🙏

[@whatsthetruth_review]

Same here.

[@caitlin8160]

Mirror to my story.

[@charticiahightower1386]

Same

[@bethmarie3921]

@icy rosette podcasts seriously??? Because the foster care system is definitely better 🙄 you sound ridiculous There's tons of parents struggling to take care of their kids, especially now!!!!

[@bethmarie3921]

Do you have any idea how much trauma separating kids from parents causes??!!! They're grown ass kids.

[@tinalindsey1598]

I stopped getting my nails done long ago. That crap is way too expensive. I do my own at home just fine.

[@mascara1777]

The glue on nails have improved so much! I buy Kiss brand nails for $8 and they look awesome.

[@RosaPerez]

Nails are a waste of money. I do no chip at home

[@RosaPerez]

@Kate Ellison That’s to normal nail polish doesn’t last. My can last me about a week but it’s a little bit cheaper than going to the actual salon and I do like the front colors so there’s that.

[@ppjskh]

I stopped painting my nails all together, it’s cheaper and better for the environment.

[@mrsfazzone9590]

Nails done, eye lashes done? 🤔 I guess poverty means something different to everyone

[@susanlabarrie7228]

Please don't say that you are not smart to go back to school.? _you are holding yourself back by saying that..

[@takishacade7531]

Periodt!!! 🤦‍♀️

[@MyThoughtzAndOpinionz]

That’s what not being smart is 😂

[@soniarena5250]

Right, you never know until you try.

[@sfrealestatedealmaker6001]

Yup

[@mimisam18]

For someone who can articulate well enough...you're not smart enough??? No way, Sugar. You're smart, very smart.

[@Babylon2060]

Children under the poverty line should get free Vouchers for school book fairs!

[@yippehanako]

@Tim W not everywhere has a library

[@jojom6657]

Volkswagen, nails, lashes. I been at rock bottom, none of that was possible. And you have family close, too. Girl you got this.

[@alvaropena5540]

And don't forget the Dunkin coffee.

[@loveandpeace8760]

Agree with you but at the same time, I want to play the devil's advocate & say that, these nails, hair, lashes are perhaps her 'hope', her way of surviving the day to day dreariness in a seemingly hopeless job. She may think these exterior 'things' are what makes her 'normal' and blend into the society. But I totally agree with you that she does need a change of mindset in order to have a better life. She needs a career mentor who really cares for her well-being, but that person ain't going to fall from the sky. She needs to proactively seek this 'way out' herself.

[@zyralove4540]

If she had this she wouldn’t be in the same job after 17 years😂.

[@jennyoneill8879]

Birth control too....

[@jennyoneill8879]

I lived in a 3 room apt... no w/d, no a/c,

[@jasminekennel5849]

She looks good and keeping herself up. Those babies look well taken care of! She doing great!

[@mnelson5388]

She is probably not doing great due to her choices but due to the tax payer who pays for free school lunches, discounted housing, free health care. If she relied solely on her abilities, she would be living on the street with her four kids. Her situation is due solely to her poor choices. She didn't know that she was making min wage when she had her first kid, how about the 2nd, 3rd and 4th. This woman is everything that is wrong in this nation and you think she is great? If that is what you think, you may need a little better guidance.

[@lavinder11]

"I don't feel like I'm smart enough to go to school." This is so heartbreaking, but not uncommon. Many of my cousins felt their same way until my dad went back to school, and then most of his sisters followed in his footsteps. They were all single parents (my dad included) who worked and took care of their kids. It's hard work, but it's possible. If you want better for your kids, you have to be an example for them.

[@Wednesday3665]

Thank you for this comment

[@MultiSassy84]

Her saying "I don't feel like I'm smart enough to go to school" was just so sad! I wish I could tell her, you don't have to be "smart" just go! They will teach you what you need to learn, you don't have to be a genius or know it all to get an education :(

[@genxx2724]

@@brokeduece1691 “Not smart enough to go to school” means not intelligent enough to benefit from it. It doesn’t mean not knowing facts, which are taught in school. A person has to have intelligence in order to learn facts and apply them.

[@moomamoo8511]

College starts at a certain level, though. When I tried to take assessments at a few colleges, I failed miserably. All the counselors told me they don't offer classes at my "level", and I somehow graduated highschool. They can turn you away for "not being smart enough".

[@genxx2724]

@@moomamoo8511 College was never supposed to be for everyone. Did you get high grades in college preparatory classes in high school, or did you take the standard curriculum?

[@F95GHomestead]

No dont go to school!! Its a waste and nothing but a pit of Debt!! I can think of 100 different ways people can make money Doing things they enjoy!!. I love turning everything in my life into a way to make money. People think they have to have highschool and collage but its all lies!! Im 26 and do very well for myself and I am able to pass down 7 skills/trades down to my kid and future kids between my husband and I. I could teach a class on how 5 year olds could make 10k a year!

[@amrithatalks1103]

@@F95GHomestead can you teach me how mam..i cud use a little help from you

[@Timbergal]

Working as a cashier at Walgreens or fast food, is not meant for a lifelong career. Millions of people worked their way through college, on multiple minimum wage jobs. They did and so can this lady ...she needs someone to tell her that. Yes of course it is very difficult but if you want a better life, sacrifices have to be made. My Dad taught me that principle. The best advice I’ve ever received.

[@takishacade7531]

Welp, she said she doesn't feel smart enough for school 🤦‍♀️🤦‍♀️🤦‍♀️🤦‍♀️🤦‍♀️😴😴😥😥

[@Girlintheewild]

The first sentence is a WORD!!

[@roshelltannen9698]

Oh please. She needs to be working forget school. I'm so tired of Baby Mamas/Daddies getting acalades for doing adult things. She should be preparing her kids for high learning of some sort or the work force. She doesn't have the luxury to just go back to school. She should've thought about that before having multiple, illegitimate kids.

[@RahYisrael99]

@@takishacade7531 exactly. How we value ourselves shows up in every area of our lives. For example, the lash extensions, newer model vehicle and acrylic nails. I'm not being rude just pointing out that shes barely surviving but(probably)paying a car note....$20 a week for a nail fill in equals $80 a month toward a continuing ed class. But this is how she sees herself.

[@RahYisrael99]

And I personally know people who made great career moves working for Walgreens.

[@snowblo1]

Oh wow, this was a good episode & I really want Melissa to strive. Being at Walgreens for 17 years is not something everyone can say. Longest I've ever stayed at 1 job is probably 3 - 4 years.

[@blaisetelfer8499]

It's not something anyone would *want* to say. If you work for someone for multiple years and they're still paying you minimum wage, you're clearly being taken advantage of.

[@snowblo1]

@@blaisetelfer8499 Obviously I wasn't speaking of being stagnant & not receiving raises a few times a year & ultimately getting ahead within the company. I grew up with people that have started out at Walgreens as cashiers and heaved worked their way up and are making a pretty good living. Have bought stock into the company and the whole 9. Geez. Seems like you always have to spell everything out here on KZbin. But whatever.

[@jenniferwilliams5478]

I lasted 12 years at a job

[@snowblo1]

@@jenniferwilliams5478 Oh wow, that's impressive!

[@emmaanderson8036]

She makes this look easier than it actually is, I can’t imagine, bless her , sending all the luck in the world for the future to her and her family, Life in the uk is tough but looks tough on the other side too, she is a great person , haters in the comments need to shut it.

[@extremeclean2680]

Where is the father? Why keep having more children when you are already struggling? You have to make smart decisions, yet self esteem plays a large part in the decisions we all make. I wish her well..

[@learninglife8676]

Why keep having more kids ? Birth Control should be a smart decision . She is not Smart.

[@ina1815]

I wish these Deadbeats were addressed by you lame blamers

[@dayuus1dayuus733]

@@learninglife8676 right

[@bkborn4256]

Let's assume he/they pay child support yet she chooses to keep custody of all kids even tho she can't afford to. It's very common to assume the fathers are absent and not that the mom is just irresponsible.

[@DB-vt1kk]

@@bkborn4256 what you said makes no sense. If he is paying child support than she shouldn’t be struggling

[@iCeleste7]

Melissa I hope you see this. I just want to say you are a strong incredible mom. Please don’t be so hard on yourself, we all have to start from the beginning when enrolling in something new like school. You don’t have to be “smart,” you just have to put in the hard work and time. I know you can do it. You’ve got the determination. Every time you clock in at Walgreens, let that be your fire and motivation to get through school. Starting is the hardest part.

[@alliroma3383]

I hope her kids have better. Ik what its like growing up in that sort of condition. My mom has 4 kids and lives below the poverty line. I'm the only one of my parents and siblings to get a high school diploma and now the first to get my bachelors. Those kids can rise above

[@aigatulifau6127]

Mama you have strength that has pushed you through all adversity that u experience!! Sending u love and light xo

[@chevyjazz]

I don't believe higher education means higher pay. It helps, across the average but I work in tech. My boss and owner of the company I work for never went to college. He finished high school and didn't have the money for college so he didn't go. Now he's making hundreds of thousands a year. You'd never know it though as he's the most relaxed person with no need for anything fancy.

[@TeeLeeMills1]

Is he a white male?

[@lunaandcoco4771]

What's your job specifically? Can you share your experience?

[@itsmagicallydelicious6843]

You're right!!! Work smart not hard, I have people in family, who never went to college are millionaires, and one's that did are still in debt still trying to pay off a student loans.🤦 🤦

[@dbstewart86]

That's extremely uncommon. Very few people have the inherent business sense, technical acumen, and entrepreneurial ability that would be necessary for that, not to mention the drive and whatever support system would be necessary. That's only slightly different than saying, I know a professional athlete, why isn't everybody one?

[@lindseyf4515]

@@TeeLeeMills1 not all are like that. I know a black man who never went to college and he was poor going up, but now he’s very successful and it makes me so happy to see that.

[@karasimon6766]

If she is here for 17 years they at least should train her to be a senior level manager!!! Come on!!!

[@onetwocue]

I think it depends on the person. Some people don't want all the responsibility. More money but more hours in a corporate company. Since it's probably salary, they can make you work whatever hrs corporate wants.

[@dianaray1470]

Who says they haven’t tried?

[@carlkpsplucky5554]

Company’s don’t promote internally like they used to. They’d rather the college graduate who studied basket weaving be the manager rather than the employee who’s been there for 10+ years.

[@chelseareyes56]

Exactly

[@ifoster165]

I been a CNA for 20 yrs. Yes I went to college. I chose not to be a nurse I did try. It's good money but I just love helping my elderly. Not that nurses don't help, but we are the first to do and know everything. It's a struggle at times. But if it wasn't for subsidies in housing, government help, man I don't know. I worked two or three jobs before so I know if I waz a nurse maybe I wouldn't have to work so hard but God makes a way. And he will continue. Since the pandemic, our rates went up in Healthcare tremendously and you can breathe a but easier. It was so hard before. It's not great, but it's beyond better than before.

[@whynotnow9618]

I am so amazed when I hear people say, "Oh, I can only be doing this, because I don't have a higher education". I'm in my 30's & have some college...school didn't work out for me & I realized very quickly that if I want to make a decent wage or even median income, then I have to do something that is valued in society and become good at it. In my field that I work in, social services, having a bachelor's and even master's degree is kind of the standard of what HR & hiring managers are looking for. I didn't want to go back to school, so I realized that I have to keep doing work in this field, cross training to be flexible in multiple roles, gaining experience & become an established professional. That's how you make more money, so I just I feel bad for people who don't understand that. 17 years in a professional field would have gotten her something so much different than 17 years somewhere like Walgreens or retail, in general...I don't know how someone's in the field for so long & doesn't have a relevant skillful position, how you can do something so peripheral for so long... I just don't know what mindset I'd have to be in to accept that. 😔...Like people mention, what about Amazon, FedEx, something else basic but higher paying in customer service?

[@wifeymommy4242]

My mom worked day and night to support my baby sister, my grandmother took me at 5yo we lived on the reservation. We are full bloodied cherokee but my grandmother kept the house up while my grandfather and father and uncles and cousins worked their ass off but we all lived in one big cabin the boys shared a room while I slept with my grandparents. I miss my grandmother and grandfather but to us we never thought we were poor our family hunted and we had livestock we always ate it might not have been what we wanted but our stomach was full. We always had clothes but shoes was only for school and meetings. Mama you got this don't give up on your self your showing your babies independence and when its time for them they will look back at you and say my mama taught me how to have patience and be grateful for what we have and to work my ass off. You got this mom!

[@romystumpy1197]

You know what you all had a common goal and you were a true family all mucking in trying to make something from nothing , no slacking, you can look back on that , very similar to when i was a child we all pulled together.whereas i believe the family is not a true family nowadays.kids sit in their rooms doing their thing.idk

[@recluseraven]

One thing I will say, is thank god for FAMILY. Yes they go without a lot, but seeing the family together for the grandpas birthday was beautiful and it warmed my heart. Many in poverty don't even have that.

[@dionnelewis9141]

She is a strong women!!… May God bless her with a Financial blessing !!!

[@ournextstepforward3079]

This make me so sad. Wow my heart hurts for her.... mcds is starting at $15.00 now here. I remember when my kids were little I used to work 7pm-7am to be there for them in the afternoon. Take them to school, drop them off, make dinner, parent teacher conferences etc. it’s not easy.

[@terrylynn9984]

@icy rosette podcasts no mother would, what a stupid suggestion.

[@zebramilktea]

I’ll never fault someone who’s at least working for doing things like their nails. Being a mom is hard and if spending $40 on herself keeps her sane and she’s working to pay for it, she deserves it. Some moms don’t even work, only government assistance and you wouldn’t know because they have designer and $100 nails.

[@les.8301]

Thank you. People don’t seem to understand.

[@xkxshx]

Plus I'm sure she wanted to look nice for the cameras, nothing wrong with that. Anyone else would do the same

[@cloverbird5785]

Um you ain't getting no 100 dollar nails on welfare

[@zebramilktea]

@@cloverbird5785 that’s good that you don’t know people like that. Lol. But I’ve definitely known people who are on welfare and have designer bags and spend $100+ on nails. They have a lot of kids and don’t work because it’s easier for them to get welfare. At least the woman in this video works. 🤷🏾‍♀️

[@genxx2724]

@@zebramilktea Yep. Fake nails, fake hair, fake lashes, and showing off with status logos is a dead giveaway. 🤣 They’re not fooling anyone except others at the bottom rung.

[@ssunshyne9479]

I worked for Walgreens years ago..they are ridiculous they pay their cashiers chicken scratch while the people who work in corporate are getting paid ridiculous salaries..then they want you to act like it's the best place to work..I went back to school got into the medical field and left that sorry job

[@ohioitis200]

Companies/corporations are in business to make money. If you stay there and don't do anything to better your life like going back to school in the evenings or learning a new skill, that is on you. Commitment and sacrifice are not easy, but well worth it in the long run.

[@royharper2003]

they ( and jobs like it) pay squat because it requires essentially no skills. Do you think the Walmart greeter is making 100K a year?

[@libertarian4323]

Her Mom had 6 kids by age 21 with a father who didn't work. Now she has 4 kids with no baby daddies around. Who would have thought this could lead to financial struggles?

[@libertarian4323]

@BJ22 Her mom and dad had 6 kids before the Mom was 21. I'm not sure if that was before or after his "disability," but that doesn't sound like a good plan unless her dad was a very high earner like a doctor, lawyer, or engineer (highly unlikely as he doesn't seem to have a "disability" that would prevent office work). My point is, she's making bad decisions, as her parents did before her, and her parents parents did before that. Schools need to spend less time teaching kids Shakespeare, and more time teaching the facts of life: Having multiple kids (often out of wedlock) at a young age, with no marketable job skills is NOT the formula to success.

[@nicylee]

@@libertarian4323 👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾

[@Mocs6574]

@BJ22 So? It's pretty stupid to have 6 kids by 21 years old. I don't care what daddy does for a living.

[@theresa78201]

@@libertarian4323 The schools don't cover Shakespeare any more.

[@teresaalford5978]

EXACTLY

[@cancel.lgbtq.6892]

Your ability to pick the right partner is crucial.

[@nikkif9873]

I’m sorry but people think they pick the right parter all the time even after years of being together .... it’s always a gamble

[@masterace1150]

Now, lets look at "peoples ability to pick the right partner" in light of the national divorce rates. One more thing, there is one thing called a smart ass and the other just smart. I doubt you are the later.

[@Bovias]

My husband died in a horrific car crash 3 years ago when our youngest was only 4 months old. He was the perfect mate and made a great life for us. Now my kids and I struggle because we sold everything to pay for funeral fees except our car. Life happens.

[@missdesireindependance5194]

This is why women should secure themselves first before having children.

[@userNOTfound1-3]

@@missdesireindependance5194 AMEN

[@domplus6]

It’s definitely hard I’ve been at the bottom with 5 children, I prayed and prayed I now have a government job with a high school diploma so it definitely can be done no matter what you gotta keep pushing till you get where you have to be!

[@kimwarner1681]

She definitely has the determination she just needs the self esteem. I hope she changes her mindset and believes in herself more.

[@katiefernandez7419]

A couple years that my family had to go on EBT because my dad lost his job we ate the best food and had the most food. We struggle more when my dad had a job

[@jeanpierre9539]

At least she’s taking care of her kids. I love her hustle, she could be sitting on the couch getting welfare. Much love 💯

[@MarieHolliday]

I pray 🙏 God give this woman a renewed mindset to rise above her situation.

[@jenniesmythe8188]

i think if the mother had of been honest with her daughter of their situation when she was growing up the daughter wouldnt have repeated the moms "mistakes". Hopefully her daughter who is a mom of four now will discuss financial difficulties and life struggles with her children that way they dont have to struggle as much in the future and have more financial freedom. Wish her and her children the best !

[@blackstarkitty9387]

This!!! I thought it was kinda weird that the mom went back to school but didn't seem like she encouraged her daughter and like u put it just seem like she watched her make the same mistakes like??? I think the 17 yr old will b ok cuz she said that her 17 yr old said he wants to work at the store like her and she said she wants more for him

[@cherylT321]

People usually live what they know, sometimes unconsciously. She said her parents had 11 kids; she ended up having four. Sadly, I’m sure her kids will repeat her pattern as well and become single parents stuck in dead end jobs!

[@lathancram5184]

I wish the best for this lady but people need to STOP having children if they are not in a position to comfortably raise them. If she was on her own she would be saving a lot more money and able to be more flexible with her employment options.

[@joycewright5386]

Sometimes it takes a generation to break the poverty cycle. We grew up extremely poor without government assistance. What my Mom did give me was a strong work ethic. My job was to go to school and study. As a result I went to nursing school on scholarships and was able to break the poverty cycle. It can be done.

[@20maxilo]

You are right it can be done... with a strong will power and belief

[@romystumpy1197]

Some people just dont have it.i was 8 with friends wed go to the fair ground when in town on a sunday clean pick up all the rubbish take their clothes to the laundry , oil some machinery for 2 shillings each which is 20 pence in todays money dunno about cents. There are levels/degrees of poverty .that is the question

[@AW-si5jh]

I'm trying to have sympathy for her, but 4 kids?!?! Why does every poverty story seem to be about single mothers with more than 2 kids. *Stop having kids if you can't afford the first one!* It is not fair to the kids to bring them into this world knowing damn well you can't afford a pot for them to pee in or a window to throw it out of! Use common sense and birth control! #smh

[@libertarian4323]

Where are the "baby daddy's?"

[@heidimisfeldt5685]

@@libertarian4323 Might just be one dad for them all, lets not jump to conclusions. She is working and giving her kids what she can give them. Her house looks clean and organized. The kids look clean and well fed. Judge not. Because you might be wrong.

[@libertarian4323]

@@heidimisfeldt5685 The house is probably clean because she has a taxpayer subsidized nanny who probably cleans the taxpayer subsidized house where this woman and her 4 taxpayer subsidized children live. Maybe there is just one baby daddy, she never mentions him- probably because he was a bad choice she made. My guess is, it's either one baby daddy who is currently in prison, or multiple baby daddies and she's just embarrassed to talk about it. In either case, why did she keep making kids long after she knew she was never going to get more than that min wage job (she had 3 of them after starting her current job)? She's just making one bad decision after another, just as her parents did before her. Also, why is her electric bill so high in the summer? She lives in NY, it doesn't get that hot, she doesn't need to blast the air conditioning all summer.

[@nicylee]

@@libertarian4323 RIGHT!! Did you look at the 2nd and 3rd video?? Yea I can’t really give her sympathy like some families who are really out here with no house no job or anything. She throws out excuse after excuse after excuse on why she can’t further her education... Not to mention I worked at Walgreens and kept every little penny I got. No nails no hair no anything and still managed so she could’ve kept that $20 for that fill in and gave it to her kids “for the school book fair.” Smh

[@libertarian4323]

@@nicylee My mom would have told me there was no need for me to spend money at a school book fair when there is a whole library full of free books at the school. Free books are the best kind!

[@neoudi2024]

Lots of support from friends and family! Praise the Lord!!!

[@loriann822]

She’s has no money, but continued to have kids and she finds money to get her nails done. These young woman need to open their eyes to their future and make better decisions

[@overcomer-bgat]

Right!

[@yulmarodriguez4]

Not to argue or anything but I would just keep in mind that it’s not ok to make statements like that that oh she’s spending money on something non essential she is not properly taking care of her money. Unless you know the whole situation I woudn’t say stuff like that. Since your focusing on the nails how do you know someone didn’t pay for her to get them done? Or something like that?

[@goodmeasure777]

@@yulmarodriguez4 I think the point is, even if someone gifted her the nails, perhaps filling up the gas tank would've been a better gift. It's the optics, of it all. Nails take a bit of time to have done, so there you go. Time and money.

[@veronicamitchell9378]

Is there a video of her at a salon? Do we know she doesn’t do them herself?

[@dianaray1470]

Yup exactly

[@elleningalls5434]

I completely feel for this woman. I wonder if there is a dollar tree around her groceries are a lot cheaper there. If there's anybody near her who coupons, that would definitely help her out. And i wonder if there's food pantries or a church or outreach program near her. I'm so glad her mom is opening up to her and sharing stories she'd never heard of. I hope this woman goes back to school if she wants to. I know you and your kids will do amazing things lady!!!💜💜💜💜

[@OliveOyl12590]

You raised three great ideas and you hit on the root of her problem. Dollar Tree, using coupons, and getting supplemented from sources like food pantries and churches are excellent ways to sustain economically challenged people. The root of her problem stems from her strained relationship with her mother. By the way she talked about her, she described her mom as calculated and distant. Her father was aloof and nothing more than an accessory to his wife while she portrayed her other relatives as family members that wanted to judge her and make strife. The only reliable member in her family seemed to be her one sister that walked up and down the street with her in Part 2.

[@katy3mpress]

I feel for this woman. Life for her would be easier with a loving and committed parter. The children would also benefit from a father figure

[@libertarian4323]

Hopefully one of the baby daddies will put a ring on it someday, but that's not likely.

[@NL-hu2ud]

Do you think maybe we are conditioned to think like that? Although yes would be nice to be in a partnership, as you saw from the mother and father. The mother works and has all the financial strain as the father is disabled. A loving relationship is one thing, and making ends meet due to education, wages and opportunities is another.

[@black_butterfly4947]

@@libertarian4323 how do you know she has multiple baby daddies

[@libertarian4323]

@@black_butterfly4947 She's has a pile of kids of wildly differing ages (4-17), and appears to have no baby daddy around currently. Maybe it was one baby daddy who stuck with her for 13 years, then recently dumped her. Maybe it was four baby daddies. Maybe it was 2 or 3. Who knows what's going on in her chaotic mess of a life. Whether 1, 2, 3, or 4 baby daddies, though, it would be nice if one (or more) of them stepped up and at least helped pay for the kids. And lets hope she doesn't squeeze out another kid (or kids) without a father, making her life even more of a mess.

[@whatsthetruth_review]

Thank you to all the people who did not disrespect this woman. I understand that she should of not continued to have children after the first child plus getting her hair, nails, face and feet done. She has made poor choices probably because she lost hope along the way? I really hope she goes to college to learn something she will love doing and get paid well. Don't lose hope just keep bettering yourself and make wise decisions.

[@Candlewick14]

Why should we not disrespect a woman who can't afford 4 kids but has them anyhow...they now live in relative poverty because of her..come on.

[@coffeeandreviewswithangie9333]

She has made poor decision we all do.. but, she is clearly racist in this video and seeing caucasians bothers her and she thinks there profiling her.. while she is profiling them in the video.. if she wants to change her life around then also start by treating people individually and not as a whole.. majority of people do not have it easy and have to work extra hard to get where they are at.. she can do it if she wants it.. there are programs out there that will help her.. like fafsa if she wants to go to school but, fafsa unfortunately will not cover a trade it would have to be a degree.. even with 4 children she can still do better for herself.. I myself dont have it easy and I hefore covid hit was working on getting my ged to go to college i passed 3 of the 4 test so far and i have teo younger daughters shich makes it difficult but, im not giving up.. I have a husband but, he does not help out with the girls so i can study alone what i do i must do with the girls and its extremely stressfuk not having help.. but, i will do it.. ive come so close already.. this girl is closer to college then me sense she hsd thst opportunity to graduate.. I did not because i moved around to much when i was younger and education just wasnt a priority with my family.. this girl has alot of help to get things sccomplished more then I do. If I were here I would walk away from anyone or anything that stands in your way of accomplishment and goals.. sctions speak louder then words.. she has 4 kids and works 40hrs a week i do have more kids but there adults so only two at home.. but, they do not dtand in my way of the things i want to accomplish.. if i want ro do it i get put there and do it.. i work more then 40hrs a week i will do 12-16hrs a week how do i accomplish this i bring my daughter to work with me after she is out of school and i have to get things ready to repeat the next day.. and still make time to study.. she has to motivate herself in order to get things accomplished. If she truly wants to change her life around her 17yr old son should know hoe to cook to take that burden off so she can come home and stsrt working on goals.. she can fo to online school with fafsa so no need to go in person for most classes.. she sill has to give up most of her free time for awhile in order to better her situation.. thats what ive had to do and do now.. i literally never go out and do any leisurely activities because I want a better life and better future for my family.. the fun can come later.. if she is going to sork and coming home and doing everything else that her kids could he helping with then thats taking time away rhat she needs to work on hettering her situation..all i see mostly is poor me, poor me.. and nothing being done to change things around.. there like dreams at this point and no movement towards actually making any of it happen.. and also i do not wear makeup anymore, do my hair, get my nails done or my feet done.. because that does take away from not only your children but, a savings account she could hsve started. Nails and pedicures are not cheap i used to do them once a year. Whats morr important? Looking good in the poverish neighborhood or saving for a better future? Id rather lolk like crap and hsve money in my savings.. impressing guys doesnt pay the bills or pull u ahead.. and thats another thing where are the dads? She could be getting child support from these guys to take partof the financial burden off of her.. i love to see people succeed so I hope and pray that she starts taking those necessary steps towards a better future and wd see an updated video so we can cheer her on.. to her and all those who are struggling I wish u all the best and I know you hsve it in you to over come all barriers! Never give up tour worth it!!❤️🌹

[@Candlewick14]

@@coffeeandreviewswithangie9333 one kid you can't afford is an accident. Four kids you can't afford is deeply selfish bordering on abusive.

[@coffeeandreviewswithangie9333]

@@Candlewick14 well there here so there’s nothing u can do sbout that.. so she needs to deal with that and start moving towards her goals instead of just talking about them.. if she can get her life on track then taxpayers wont be sitting here working hard to pay for her kids and everyone elses kids who sits on secrion 8 or welfare.. there really should he a likitxad to how long u can sit on section 8 i know some that have been on it for 20yrs.. that tells me these families are not workkg to better themselves.. some work the bare minimum so they dont lose there benefits.. i know some who also went from 40hrs a week down to 20hrs a week just so they could get on medicaid and then set up a go fund me getting over 6,000 in donations for medicsl bills when medicaid literally pays for everything.. there should be a cap on these programs..

[@jossykerflossy915]

@@Candlewick14 why are you even here? Just to rag on poor people so you feel better about your life?

[@soniasg8639]

There are evening & morning classes at public school districts. Nursing, computers, etc. I'm taking computer classes, hoping to move up in my job.

[@AshBoogie24]

Some of y’all are so ruthless in the comments . Words have power and I pray you don’t end up in her position one day. Y’all are assuming she brought that bag, it could be fake and gifted to her, y’all think she has extensions in her head and that’s her real hair. I swear if she was white y’all wouldn’t be saying shit!

[@welphereweare5807]

Yes, this is what I was thinking

[@Ytreecv]

why do you think race matters here? It does not, at all. She could be green and still make poor financial choices. Race has nothing to do with it.

[@letrice2892]

I agree these ppl are ridiculous in the comment section I stated that on a thread earlier and its sickening that majority of the negativity are coming from women some who are mothers themselves and have been in this position one woman replied to me and actually took accountability for her actions and apologized for her comments bcuz she was in that position ..thats what ppl dont understand dont knock others down bcuz u progressed from that starting point as well as u never know if that could be u next either way life has a way of making ppl humble real quick

[@kimwarner1681]

I'm white and I stuck up for her on this thread to some of these nasty women. I said the same, the bag could have been bought at a yard sale or Goodwill or been a gift. Nails are done at home or picked up for one dollar at Dollar Tree. she said she does not feel she is smart enough to go back to school so that tells me someone pounded into her head she wasn't smart enough, someone beat her down and that's sad. She is doing everything on her own, full time work, running the house, the kids, everything she might be too exhausted to go back to school, that does not make her lazy. the older you get, the more tired you get. she may not have time for her own homework on top of everything else now. Yes, she should have done things differently but no one is exempt from making mistakes and I get the feeling someone whether it was a parent or grandparent, someone in her life told her she was not smart or good enough. that stuck in her head and you see the results. I hope she changes her mindset on that, she is not stupid at all. lazy and dumb would be sitting at home on the couch with their hand out, she is far from that type of person.

[@Snoop-z2j]

Looks are deceiving. I have been shopping at Thrift stores my whole life and now a church were I live has a pop pop up shop once a month for clothes free clothes. I just got a very expensive real Coach bag and if you saw many of my clothes the furniture in my small studio you would see so pay out money nope thrift, trash picking and Craigslist has saved me. You really can’t assume by appearance and she now people can do their own nails. I order mine off of Amazon.

[@AshBoogie24]

My heart breaks .I would say go to school for CNA and see what doors open with that.

[@jamsaidemelo1367]

My little sister did this. After a few years got additional education and became a nurse. She also decided to only a step mother to one kids since it was financially difficult. I will destroy anyone who thinks they should pressure her to have kids, because people do this all the time.

[@1984marykay]

Thats what I am for 20 years n support myself well.

[@amymenjivar3489]

Certification is fast but wages are low in that, too. If she can get in at a hospital and then get money for a nursing degree...do the ER 3 X 12 hour shifts and still time for a life and her kids.

[@dionnewalker2308]

I was just about to type the same thing it's not the most glam job but the pays is really good

[@jamsaidemelo1367]

@@dionnewalker2308 I beleiwc they are a valuable part of a society, soecualy now with the extended life spend and the baby boomer generation just beginning to enter long term care home. I do not believe it pays really well. Maybe for a few lucky one in private sectors or inexpensive location. They are often short staff and dealing with unreasonable demands of time per individual which will keep resulting in criminal act towards the elderly for neglect. It is a respectful career and one should be filled with pride when doing this work. Canada, just like the US is opening large amount of work permit from overseas due to the high demand.

[@evonza4858]

Shout out to anybody trying to come up and hustling the right way,however, the lady's weave, nails and eyelashes looked very well maintained. I'm not saying don't have theses things but make sure your kids are not lacking because of these things, this statement is from a true survivor mom who changed thousands of pampers to come up🥰❤️🖤💚

[@jacob_gang]

I agree with you all the way Queen. I do my own nails and hair to save !

[@erikavasquez2706]

Her lashes look old and her nails are super overgrown. I wouldn’t say well mai Renés

[@erikavasquez2706]

Well maintained*

[@thedhive6512]

Ladies: This is why sexual selection is important, starting from high school. Swag and attitude do not pay bills.

[@marcvslicinivscrassvs7536]

In the past women selected for more stable men, but in the past 50 years that has gone out the window.

[@lipshine1]

@@marcvslicinivscrassvs7536 what are you people talking about?

[@hmccall3]

You can do anything yo set your mind to. One thing I learned more than 40 years ago is that if you start by saying "I can't", or "I'm not smart enough", or any negative self statement, then you have already lost. This applies to everyone having issues and self doubts. You CAN do it! You ARE smart enough! Don't just believe it, KNOW IT!! God Bless and good luck!

[@OxiForce]

This story brought tear to my eye

[@kaybee8646]

So, she's worked there for 17 years, making no money, but having kids while working this job and no money. Sigh.

[@aricgoetz910]

Exactly

[@mwafrika4]

With limited upwards movement smh

[@FlansyLinny]

She could have become a manager in that time or a shift lead, they make at least 15 an hour. My friend works at Walgreens as a manager and makes 20 an hour

[@suedefringe]

@@FlansyLinny I was going to say I made friends with my favorite cashier and she is now management. It's possibly that she might not want to move up for fear of being in a different $$$ bracket and losing housing ?

[@valerieannrumpf4151]

@@suedefringe that could be it. Alot of govt programs basically disincentive people from improving themselves. I guess those who design these govt run programs don't want to see those who are on these programs succeed.

[@KT-gm1no]

Men/Fathers we need you! Please don’t turn your back on your children and family! Your children need you, your Queens need you to be a leader in the home. It takes 2 parents to properly run the household and manage the finances.

[@mmp495]

💯. Both a man and woman’s alliance is so important in raising children.

[@thelimwilliam]

The definition of poverty is very different between the develop country and the third world country, this woman will be considered a middle class in third world country

[@TheGreenlove87]

Exactly

[@asdfghjkl-oo7lv]

Just because your country has a different "definition" of poverty does not mean she isn't poor. Girl can barely afford food and rent. That's is poverty here. She gets paid low wages. We have homeless people living under bridges here also (sadly that is rock bottom for us). So please stop comparing...

[@IAmMomhousekeeperinhartfordct]

Your mother reminds me of myself, i was homeless too for a year with 3 kids if lucky I had a bed at shelter if not a sidewalk at the park, removing my coat going under it and blankets to keep me and kids warm during winter, I got myself out of that, I went outside the social workers and began to do so on my own, but I got out and from zero i became middle class. Idk how I did it, and I cry till this day but i did it and raised all of my kids, you know sometimes god allows situations to remind us he exists and appreciate what he gives. Trust me many nights I walk around my home still remember how cold i was at one point and I cry at how greatful I Am today...... it was not easy , but here I Am and I cry every night.

[@ohlsenjulian3288]

Most of the times Poverty comes with reason. One thing I don't understand is why so many child when you have hard time affording them?

[@KP-hi1om]

While my heart goes out to this young lady I believe she is responsible for he own poverty. 4 kids out of wedlock and no mention of the father being present. Lack of ambition. I believe that it's no secret that Walgreens pays crap wages. I noticed that her nails were done and she had a Coach bag. I do believe that her poverty can be turned around but it has to start with a change in mindset and some self control. She can count on being in poverty forever If she is depending on the government to help. I pray that she gets some confidence and job training. Being poor sucks.

[@KP-hi1om]

@BJ22 you can defend her actions all you want. The fact remains that she is in poverty and it's mostly her fault she is there. I sincerely hope that she can overcome it. BTW I will be a millionaire within the next ten years when we retire. I still shop at Goodwill and my wife does her own hair and nails. It's all about priorities and self control. Bless you.

[@FlansyLinny]

The Walgreens at my area pays 15 an hour for shift lead which isn’t bad to start out. Managers make 20 an hour and she should have been one by now... there are worse places to work

[@FlansyLinny]

If I were her I would apply for office jobs those tend to pay 15-20 starting out and aren’t that hard to get. Or try to apply for a retail manager position due to her extensive experience in a retail environment.

[@OliveOyl12590]

@@FlansyLinny If I were her I'd get the hell out of Chicago. She's in the 3rd biggest city in the country and everything costs a king's ransom.

[@amyparker9816]

@@KP-hi1om Ah yes, completely her fault. She made those kids completely on her own, with no help from anyone else.And I guess it's her fault that the father's priority wasn't his kids?

[@nikki27ish]

I don't understand why people continue having children when they are already struggling financially.

[@ashleybosvik3031]

A lot of them do it for the child benefit, it's the only money coming in for a lot of them.

[@n.delgado3189]

I don’t get why there’s such ignorant people like this

[@nikki27ish]

@@ashleybosvik3031 I can't imagine child benefit is anywhere near enough to be the motivation. Where are the fathers and why aren't they supporting their children.

[@nikki27ish]

@@n.delgado3189 everyone I know has had to decide how many children they can afford based on their financial situation, I don't understand why some people have more children when they're clearly already struggling.

[@trinitidgary]

@@nikki27ish welfare says You have to be a single parent to receive benefits. You don’t don’t understand what people have to do

[@melissahaletky2356]

Living on the poverty is tough, yet so many of us go through it.

[@naqshsharma6686]

Why someone would have kids if they can't take care of them self.

[@gabyisabel5355]

This is literally every other woman in America now a days. It all starts with yourself. Be smart not only in school but with your decisions, don't have kids with just any person, be smart with who you choose as a partner..She's living in poverty yet has like 4 kids. Make it make sense?

[@BritneyWaldron]

THANK YOU 🙏🏼 👏 and she works in retail smh 🤦‍♀️ making $7/hr

[@saragsanders5916]

They act like they do not know how they got pregnant over and over again. Where are the sperm donors.

[@BritneyWaldron]

@@saragsanders5916 I don’t understand where the father is? What he’s doing for work. Bum life

[@sandie9968]

@@saragsanders5916 probably married....hmmm

[@trinitidgary]

You can’t just tell someone to get up and be richer..

[@edwarda2033]

Sometimes as kids we don’t know that our parents went through rough patches.

[@BeyondChange]

I have just a High School Diploma, and I'm making $80k a year, able to support a Family of 3 on my own. A degree will help you somewhat, but you shouldn't have to rely on a degree to become successful. I have no degree, but make more than the average person.

[@Jesuisderetour87]

She’s so sweet and cool. I really dig her personality.

[@yahwehisontheway5094]

I grew up in Chicago, and because my mom worked for the state (dep't. of public aide) is what it was called back then. Because she worked for them we couldn't even qualify for free or reduced lunch. Our refrigerator was NEVER full, but we always had food to eat. I believe we got clothes twice a year, (school clothes and summer clothes). My sister and I started catching the bus by ourselves at ages 7 and 11years old. So we were pretty independent at an early age. When I look back, I could see that the Lord watched over us, protected us, and provided for us. I know my grandmother had to be praying for us, because before my mom could even go down that path of heavy drug use, she started having health issues and actually thought she was dying. Long story short, she gave her life to the Lord, and our LONG journey of change began from there. I pray for this young lady to have HOPE again, to DREAM again, and that the Lord would set up divine appointments and encounters with people that she is purposed to meet, that would change her life and her children's lives for the better. I pray that the Lord would dispatch his guardian angels to encamp around her and her family, and that the Lord show her how much she is loved.💖💖💖

[@krystletahria8845]

The last few seconds says it all... "If I had the proper guidance, would I be somewhere else right now?" Children need guidance to learn how to make the right decisions. I never understood parents who expect their kids to figure it out themselves. At the birthday party, she was learning things about her mom for the first time. Why wasn't her mom communicating with her years ago about the pitfalls of teenage motherhood, etc? What a shame.

[@beaverish]

Because the parents themselves also need guidance. Look at this family. Single mom with FOUR kids. Hello..?

[@krystletahria8845]

@@beaverish Before having a child , Parent(s) need to make sure they themselves have proper guidance because children rely on guidance to grow to make proper decisions. This mom hasn't had proper guidance, but at the same time if your'e in a unfortunate situation its best not to have children at a vulnerable stage. Still a shame.

[@ohmeowzer1]

I love this lady she is a good strong mother and woman God Bless her

[@guesswho5370]

I understand the struggle sis! I’m a recruiter and learning a trade will help change your circumstances. I’m in NY, where we have hospitals who will pay you to learn to become pharmacy technicians or phlebotomists!!! if you were here, I’d hire you in a heart beat with your excellent work tenure and amazing work ethic! You have a lot to offer and shame on Walgreens’s for not recognizing it!!

[@mikehurn3229]

Thank u for sharing ur life video, she is beautiful smart and an incredible mum to her kids and it’s good that she is in touch with her family and close! U got this! You are a fighter! Love from Australia 🇦🇺

[@carmenultra1]

I didn’t have stability when I was younger, both parents were on drugs and etc. I was a high school dropout, went back and got my GED at 27. I still didn’t apply myself with my GED. It took me years to figure out what I wanted to do and I thought low of myself also. At 33, I went to dental assisting school and make $25hr, I could make more at another office. I have a teenage daughter and want better for her and I’m still not done, I plan on continuing my education this year to get where I would like to be and so my daughter is straight. I started my journey with nothing. No car, no money, no bank account, no credit etc.

[@heidimisfeldt5685]

Mother's Day is coming up.🍀🌸🌺🏵🌻🌹🌷🌼🌻🌻🌻🍀🌺🌼🌸 There are a lot of quiet heroes, all single or single again, raising their children the best way they know how. Support them.

[@debrawilliams2781]

MOST pregnancy ARE NOT PLANNED FOR ONE, SHE HAS HER CHILDREN AND IS TAKING CARE OF THEM WITH GODS HELP. WE DO NOT KNOW WHAT GODS PLAN IS FOR HER. MAY GOD CONTINUE TO BLESS HER AND HER FAMILY.

[@saulcamacho1467]

Single mother of four please give us the taxpayers a break

[@Mocs6574]

@@debrawilliams2781 She's NOT taking care of them. She lives in public housing and gets government daycare help. Kids are probably on Medicaid too. That's not doing for your children. That's the damn government - aka the taxpayer - taking care of them.

[@letrice2892]

@@Mocs6574 u don't know what this woman finances and health insurance are and living in public housing isn't free rent its rent at less than market value and since u think u know so much even though shes working at Walgreens she might make too much to qualify for medicaid even if she makes a dollar over the requirement they will view her as making enough to get health insurance from her employer if they offer it so stop assuming she's just being lazy

[@alien2girl07]

Do not be afraid of success, beautiful. You are worthy and you can do anything that you put your mind to. If you want it, claim it and work hard for it. You got this!!

[@blaisetelfer8499]

Retail does not promote internally. The idea that you can eventually work your way up to a well-paying management position is just the carrot on a stick they dangle in front of you, so you'll work there for 17 years, show up early, work unpaid overtime and never cost the company more than minimum wage. Your senior manager is probably someone with an MBA who never actually worked as a retail associate.

[@thecoxsfamily3027]

As someone who understands , she is doing the best for her kids ♥️♥️♥️. Praying for her

[@williamfullman2639]

Keep pushing mother did the same thing in which made me work and hustle even harder so my children didn't have to thanks for sharing your story and I hope the best for you and your family

[@s.h.4241]

Subsidized housing, subsidized childcare. She’s lucky there are a lot of people who are in need, can’t get even those things.

[@amymenjivar3489]

Bottom line is kids are expensive- child care, food etc. She had 2 when she started 10 years ago...and struggeling...so why have 2 more? 4 kids on $13 an hour? Child support? After 10 years, too bad she wasn't assistant manager or manager. 2 more kids make it harder to go back to school etc. They are here now so she's going to have to figure out what school/trades she wants to do to try to get ahead.

[@kathyciccone2557]

Why doesn't the 17 year old son get a part time job to help out ?

[@brandyshanee7709]

I’m sorry a lot of people complaining about her hair and nails... how we know she didn’t do this for the interview? Cause I know personally ima atleast look like something before you film Me. We don’t always know the full story

[@HaleighBennet]

it’s like no one realizes she has to look presentable to keep her job too

[@krista8462]

Exactly!! She works hard for her family and if she wants to have a little happiness ( nails) then good for her ❤️

[@bigblue4579]

@@HaleighBennet you can look presentable without fake nails and fake lashes 🤦🏾‍♀️

[@HaleighBennet]

@@bigblue4579 u know clear glue ons cost 5$ right? and you can buy lash extension kits for ~10$?

[@bigblue4579]

@@HaleighBennet and you can still look presentable without them 🤦🏾‍♀️

[@rizalukman7982]

Thank you for good documentary movies.It opens up my eyes and my heart

[@oyotundookubegwa520]

Poverty???? This family has more stuff and luxuries than people in other countries!

[@Opethfeldt]

It's less about how much you have and more about the perceived gap between the rich and poor. In countries with huge gaps like in the US, even people who are wealthy by typical standards feel more poor than they are.

[@nusaibahibraheem8183]

Well this is poverty in America, not in other countries

[@oyotundookubegwa520]

I know rich people in AMERICA who don't have this much stuff. I know "poor people" in AMERICA who have barbecues all the time and smoke weed all day long - at $50 a dose.

[@NaRuHiNaTa83]

@@oyotundookubegwa520lmao what? 50 bucks a dose? What's a dose? You're not making sense, are you doing the marijuana? 😂😂😂

[@oyotundookubegwa520]

@@NaRuHiNaTa83 Losers need to stop wasting their money on weed and pay down debt. Period.