MIDLAND, Texas — College is already challenging, but when you add the responsibility of being a full-time parent, it becomes an entirely different task.
With September being National Student Parent Month, NewsWest 9 wanted to highlight Buckner Midland's unique Family Pathways Program that helps single parents find a common ground to help navigate family and college.
Gracie Favela, the director for the pathways program, said the toughest challenge she's seen for parents is adapting to a new scenario and time management.
"I think it's difficult for them to come into a program where there's a lot of structure required," Favela said. "One of the things they struggle with is how to manage life while also going to school. That’s where I come in."
Buckner's family program empowers single moms to be self-sufficient and successful in every aspect of their lives through family coaching, financial support, counseling and affordable housing.
Take Anna Cobb, for example. She graduated from the program 20 years ago and continues to thrive.
"As soon as I finished my degree, I got a job teaching, something I’d wanted to do since I was a kid," Cobb said. "Being able to fulfill that dream, be with those children every day, and still be a mom—it was incredible. I also got a house shortly after, so I was able to provide that for my child. Just to be able to accomplish those dreams does something inside of you that spurs you forward."
Today, Cobb gives back as a leader of Buckner’s Bible Studies, encouraging other moms to keep going.
"I know it's hard and some days you wonder if it’s even worth it. Sometimes your kids are driving you crazy—and that’s OK. Just keep going because tomorrow will look different," Cobb said. "When you reach the end, not only will you be proud of yourself, but your kids will be proud too."
Cobb said some people think having a child and then going to school is doing things backward, but opportunities are always available for moms in Midland.
"If the moms have a GPA of 2.0 or higher, they’re eligible for a $350 monthly scholarship. So if they’re having difficulties paying rent, they can actually use their scholarship to put toward housing," said Favela.
The program recently received a grant from Texas Mutual Insurance Company to further support students and parents.
According to Favela, the grant helps Buckner cover leftover tuition, and they're also able to provide computers, printers and other supplies student parents need to be successful.
As the director of the program, Favela said she couldn't spotlight one story because every parent was an inspiration and testament to being dedicated to the process of growth.
"I think all of them, whenever they're ready to transition out of the program, that's the beauty of it, is just seeing all of their success just be implemented and how self-sufficient they are as well," Favela said. "They're all doing great. When they complete their education—whether it’s an associate or bachelor’s degree—a lot of the moms continue their education and pursue a master’s. I get to help them get that started, and it’s incredible."
However, it is not just the financial support these student parents are grateful for, it's the sense of community.
"There will be lots of opportunities to be with these women, support them, and say, 'I’ve been where you are. I know what it feels like, and you’re going to make it through, and it’ll be worth it. So keep pushing forward,'" Cobb said.
As a single mom herself, Favela understands the challenges student parents face.
"I’ve always believed I was put in this position for a purpose," Favela said. "I’m a single mom who went through school on my own with my children, so I can empathize with what these parents are going through. I’m here to coach them, but I also put myself in their shoes. It’s overwhelming, but I know they can do it."
Cobb reflected on her journey, talking about the hardest of times.
"The biggest concern for me was spending time with my child while getting all my coursework done. I wanted her to know she was the most important thing and that everything I was doing was for her," Cobb said. "I would often wait until she went to bed to do my work, and on my days off, I’d try not to put her in daycare. I wanted her to know she mattered."
When Cobb first became a single mom, she didn’t know any others in her situation. However, that changed when she joined the program.
"I had a friend who welcomed me and said, 'You need to be here.' At first, I thought it wasn’t for me, but it totally was," Cobb said. "Seeing all the other moms, knowing we were all walking the same path despite our individual struggles, was a comfort."
Looking back, Cobb credits Buckner with providing the safe space she needed to succeed.
"Buckner gave me the space to finish school, be with my child, and look forward to the future," Cobb said. "I don’t know what else I would’ve done without it. Because I accomplished that, it set me on the path to accomplish so much more."
Favela encourages other single parents, including dads, to consider the program.
"We have space for new parents, so if anyone is interested, they can learn more about the program," said Favela.