School Partnerships - Centerville Centerville Jr. Sr. High

“Paige” transferred to a local high school at the beginning of 2nd semester, bringing along terrible grades and a record of numerous absences. Paige lost her mother in early 2010 to cancer, she hasn’t seen her father (an alcoholic living in Tennessee) for 10 years, and she’s been living with the friend of an ex-boyfriend, paying the rent, buying food and babysitting the lady’s child.  When Paige came into Michelle Walther's office, she said she felt “lost in the crowd” at her former school. CIS was able to provide Paige with a new pair of shoes, glasses, school supplies and hygiene items.  The Michelle helped Paige get a new Social Security Card and signed her up for Medicaid, food stamps, and TANF.  “You don’t even know me so why do you care so much?” Paige wondered. Paige now has a goal: “a degree in nursing so I can help other people like my Mom…” She gave the Michelle a big hug and thanked her for helping. Just a couple of months ago, she wouldn’t have dreamed she’d have a chance to make her life better.