In a heartfelt testimony before the committee, a 47-year-old corrections officer and father of seven shared his transformative journey, highlighting the profound impact of Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) funding and educational programs on his life. After losing both parents to cancer as a teenager, he faced years of homelessness, substance abuse, and unstable employment, struggling to support his family and meet child support obligations.

His turning point came when he attended a graduation for a friend's son, prompting him to reevaluate his life choices. With the support of his wife, Lita, he sought to change his trajectory by enrolling in the Missouri Excel program, which provided him with the resources and skills necessary to earn his high school diploma. He graduated in 2020, thanks to the program's comprehensive support, including transportation assistance and job readiness training.

The SkillUp initiative further aided his journey, offering practical workshops on employment skills and facilitating connections with local businesses. He emphasized the importance of community support, noting how the program helped him navigate barriers, including issues with financial aid for college.

Now employed as a corrections officer, he also contributes to local drug court initiatives, expressing a newfound passion for helping others. His testimony underscored the critical role of TANF funding and educational programs in breaking the cycle of poverty and fostering personal growth, illustrating how targeted support can lead to meaningful change in individuals' lives.