At a Glance
- Tayla Terry now works at the African American Youth Harvest Foundation.
- She overcame a pending legal case while balancing single motherhood.
- She helped low-income youth and families in Austin.
- Why it matters: Her story shows how community support can transform lives.
Tayla Terry’s journey from nights of hunger to a steady paycheck illustrates the power of community programs and perseverance.
From Struggle to Stability
Tayla Terry once faced nights of hunger, crying while caring for her five-year-old daughter. She spent hours searching for pennies in wealthier neighborhoods, knowing her child would want something after school. The weight of a pending legal case made finding steady work seem impossible.
> “I had a lot of long nights, where I stayed up and I cried and I was hungry, but I had a five-year-old,”
She also cared for her mother, who suffered from a heart condition, adding to her daily challenges.
- Searching for pennies in affluent areas before 2 p.m.
- Balancing caregiving for her mother and single parenting.
- Participating in a restorative boxing program to manage grief and stress.
> “The world is always throwing punches, I get an hour to throw mine,”
Giving Back
With the help of longtime friends at the foundation, Tayla secured a job that offers a steady income and a platform to help others. She now works alongside volunteers to support low-income families, drawing on her own experiences to connect with those she serves.
> “And that’s why I can relate to our kids and family members here,”
| Challenge | Outcome |
|---|---|
| Pending legal case | Case resolved |
| Unsteady income | Steady paycheck |
| Limited support | Active role in community |
Key Takeaways
- Tayla Terry turned legal and economic hardship into a stable career.
- Community programs and friendships were pivotal in her recovery.
- Her work now empowers families facing similar struggles.
Tayla’s story reminds us that with determination and support, anyone can rewrite their narrative.
