'Navigating a new life together:' A tenacious mother shares her story

Taylor is tenaciously resourceful.

A mother of three boys, ages eight, four and two, Taylor is familiar with doing what it takes to ensure her family has the resources needed to thrive.

Since her oldest was born, she hasn’t been afraid to utilize programs like the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).

“(SNAP) really helps families and single moms provide the necessary meats and all the other food that you need,” Taylor said. “I have to be very resourceful with my (SNAP benefits) because I don’t get very much. If we lose those benefits, that’s when food insecurity could really set in.”

While a myth about SNAP claims people who receive SNAP don't work, that's actually not true. In fact, most people receiving SNAP benefits who can work, do work. Including Taylor - who works at a nonprofit in Virginia. With SNAP, Taylor is able to afford the essentials, specifically fresh produce and protein, that otherwise might be too expensive.

"Without that, I would have to reach out to pantries. That's when food insecurity could set in," she said.

Taylor has also received support from the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC) – which provides resources, counseling and food for parents and children. 

“As a young mom with no family around, no background knowledge, the amount of support and info I received from WIC has been invaluable,” Taylor said. “They’re providing supplemental nutrients to my family [and] I have called with breastfeeding problems, I’ve called with a picky toddler and got so much support and never felt like I had a silly question when I went there.”

WIC has made – and continues to make – a major impact on Taylor and her sons. The program has been especially important in the last year or so, as Taylor is recently separated and working to navigate a new normal while supporting her sons.

As Taylor bravely forges a new path in life with her sons, she’s staying positive.

“Life takes you on adventures that maybe you weren’t expecting,” she said. “I really enjoyed my time at home with (my sons) but we’re all just navigating this new life together.”