From ID-less to Independent: Jade’s Road to Self-Sufficiency

Jade with her bus pass.

When Jade walked out of prison in August 2024, she had nothing but determination and a second chance. Within two weeks, she took the courageous step to self-admit into rehab, then transitioned into a halfway house. By October, she was standing on her own in her first apartment—a milestone that once felt out of reach.

But starting over came with daunting obstacles: no job, no money, and no form of identification. Without an ID, she couldn’t open a bank account, apply for jobs, or access basic services. “You feel invisible without it,” Jade said. That’s when Greater Love Outreach (GLO) Phoenix stepped in.

A Simple Gift with a Profound Impact

One of the first and most powerful gifts Jade received through GLO Phoenix was an ID voucher. It may seem small, but that ID unlocked access to nearly every opportunity she needed to rebuild her life.

Then came a bus pass—another seemingly small resource that changed everything. “It made a lot of things easier,” Jade shared. With transportation assistance, she could finally attend interviews, counseling sessions, meet with her parole officer, and open a bank account. "Getting an ID and a bus pass from GLO Phoenix made me feel seen. It was the first real step to getting my life back.”  Most importantly, it helped her land her “first big girl job” in housekeeping at a local hospital.

She now has her sights set even higher. Jade is working with OVR to start phlebotomy classes and dreams of working in a cancer center. Her 13-year-old daughter is watching her mom fight for a future—and winning.

The Power of Support, The Ease of Dignity

Getting help through GLO Phoenix wasn’t a bureaucratic maze—it was personal and immediate. After calling from her ¾ house, Jade got connected to Pastor Robert Higgs. “One of the easiest experiences I’ve had,” she said. “Robert is a big help—great guy.”

Now, Jade is seeking support to stay spiritually grounded—hoping to connect with a virtual church to continue worship as she builds a new life centered on purpose, faith, and stability.

Jade’s journey is far from over, but she’s no longer walking it alone.