Gene Denton Essay 13

Growing up, I’ve noticed the need of necessities such as clothing, hygienic products, and food in youth. I’ve been that kid who wore the same shirt every day because my parent could’nt afford a new uniform. Throughout middle school, my two brothers, mother, and I were financially adjusting to one main income, which made it extremely difficult for my mom to stay on top of bills. Additionally, it was difficult for my mother to keep each of us properly clothed and fed on her own. In fact, I recall that year we couldn’t even afford gifts for Christmas or a new school uniform, yet I was still very grateful to be surrounded by my family and have a roof over my head. My mother knew she couldn’t do it all on her own, so she went to our school for help, where thankfully, staff members connected her to a charity that assisted our situation. 

The charity allowed my mother to slowly gain financial stability while my brothers and I utilized their clothing assistance. Unfortunately, there was embezzlement within the organization, leading to my family getting pulled out of our home and all our belongings thrown out onto the street. We had to completely start over. Consequently, we spent the rest of my middle school years living in my grandmother’s two-bedroom apartment, which was not enough space for my family. 

I know more families that can relate to my previous situation. The deception my family went through showed that people in vulnerable positions need more than resources, but they also need providers and additional support. Watching my family struggle wasn’t just a financial burden, but also a physical one. I watched firsthand how hygiene and nutrition impact one’s motivation. Our story inspired me to do more than watch from the outside, ultimately leading me to open a Boutique at my high school for students who also struggled the way I did. 

In the future, I plan to study nursing while spreading the same message I did throughout high school. I chose nursing so I could provide additional support, beyond clothing and food, but also healthcare and emotional support. Everyone deserves to be treated as a human. Everyone deserves the bareminimum of having nice clothes and a full belly before bed. I plan to see the person before their struggles.