In September 2024, Hayle first connected with our team when her son, Grayson, enrolled in our Menard County Head Start program. What began as a typical school-year relationship between a parent and our staff quickly grew into something more — a partnership focused on stability, advocacy, and hope. Over time, Hayle began sharing some of the challenges she was facing. She and Grayson were living in a trailer that had ongoing maintenance issues. Pipes frequently broke, the furnace did not function properly, and repairs were a constant financial strain. The instability of the home environment added stress to an already difficult season of life. At the same time, Grayson was celebrating remission from cancer — a milestone that came after an incredibly challenging journey for their family. While navigating follow-up care and the emotional weight that comes with recovery, Hayle remained determined to give her son as much normalcy as possible. Near the end of the school year, another obstacle arose when the engine in Hayle’s car failed. Without bus transportation available, she worked tirelessly to find ways to get Grayson to school most days. Her resilience and commitment to her son’s education never wavered, even when reliable transportation was no longer an option. Earlier in January 2025, Hayle had applied for public housing in Petersburg and was placed on a waiting list. By August, she still had not received any updates. After reaching out to the local housing authority, we learned that a lease from more than eight years ago — tied to a previous relationship — had an unpaid balance that was preventing her approval. As part of her ongoing engagement as a CSBG client for over a year, Hayle had consistently worked toward improving her family’s situation. After speaking with the property manager and explaining her circumstances, the housing authority agreed to give her a second chance if the outstanding balance could be resolved. With approval from leadership, we were able to assist in paying the remaining amount owed on the prior lease. One month later, Hayle received life-changing news: her application had been approved, and her apartment keys were ready. Today, Hayle and Grayson are living in a safe, stable apartment in the same town as Grayson’s school. The move has relieved the financial burden of constant home repairs and made school attendance far more manageable while Hayle continues working toward securing reliable transportation. Stories like Hayle’s remind us that community action is about more than services — it is about relationships, advocacy, and removing barriers that stand in the way of stability. We are proud of Hayle’s perseverance and honored to have walked alongside her family on this journey toward a brighter future. ~Submitted by Danelle Clutter, CAPCIL Family Advocate