LAS VEGAS (FOX5) — A program in Las Vegas helps single mothers experiencing poverty complete college while investing in their children’s future education.
The Jeremiah Program, located just north of the Strip, provides coaching and support services to help mothers go to and graduate from college. For each semester a mother completes, the organization invests $100 into college savings accounts for each of her children.
Elvire Mechoiteu found the program last April after feeling isolated while working from home as a remote customer service representative.
“I was just looking for a community. I am not very social. So I went to Google and I was just typing single mother community in Vegas. So Jeremiah came up,” Mechoiteu said.
Program offers comprehensive support
Mechoiteu is now pursuing her bachelor’s degree in accounting with help from the Jeremiah Program. She has her own coach, and the program offers tutoring to her 7-year-old son Eli, who is autistic.
“One thing that really, really helped me is the fact that I can always count on them, call them for any emergency, and they are always present,” she said.
Maria Tucker, senior executive director of the Las Vegas campus, said the program partners with single mothers and their children to disrupt the cycle of poverty two generations at a time.
“Our mission really resonates with my personal story… being a mom when I was 19 and a single mom,” Tucker said.
Tucker’s son watched her go through college and graduate school and then successfully navigated college and law school as well.
Growing program serves 71 families
The Jeremiah Program began in Las Vegas three years ago and is one of nine campuses across the United States. The program now serves 71 families with 275 mothers and children.
“After mom enrolls in college, she starts a 529 account, a college savings account for each one of her kids. And when she completes a semester, we invest $100 into each one of her children,” Tucker said.
Mechoiteu is now a 4.0 student, building a better future for herself and Eli. She encourages other single mothers to reach out.
“This is like a family, so you will not regret your decision,” she said.
Next Friday, 33 mothers who are this semester’s academic all-stars with a 3.0 or better will have a special party in their honor at Aristocrat Gaming. Learn more about the Jeremiah Program here.
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