Monica never imagined she would become a mother.

After a childhood marked by trauma, the devastating loss of her sibling to violence, and years spent in turbulent foster care settings, she made a quiet promise to herself: she would never bring a child into a world that had caused her so much pain. But life has a way of opening doors we never expect. In her thirties, alongside her husband Tim, Monica found herself preparing to welcome a baby girl. Even then, fear and uncertainty lingered.

When Monica heard about LSI’s free community baby shower in Le Mars, she hesitated. Social gatherings often triggered her anxiety, but something told her to take a chance. That decision would change everything.

At the event, Monica met Angie, a Family Support Specialist who immediately made her feel safe, seen, and supported. For the first time, Monica felt like she didn’t have to navigate motherhood alone. Encouraged by that connection, she took a leap of faith and enrolled in LSI’s HOPES (Healthy Opportunities for Parents to Experience Success) program. Soon after, baby Lily was born, and with her came a love that transformed everything.

Today, Monica and Tim eagerly welcome Angie into their home each week. Together they are building the kind of family Monica once believed was out of reach. Monica soaks up every parenting resource she can, applying what she learns with determination and care. Tim is a steady, patient presence. And Lily? She is a joyful, thriving toddler growing exactly as she should be.

But Monica’s journey didn’t begin with confidence. It began with a single moment of courage and an agency that showed up for her. Because of that one event, Monica found more than support, she found belief in herself. She found the tools to heal, to grow, and to become the loving, capable mother she once thought she could never be.

Stories like Monica’s are only possible because of compassionate donors.

Community support makes it possible to host community baby showers that connect families to vital resources. It funds programs like HOPES that empower parents, strengthen families, and give children the safe, nurturing start they deserve.

And Monica’s story is just one example of many.