When Robert and Ann Marie brought their family to Canada from Jamaica, they arrived full of hope—and with the quiet determination to build a better life. Focused, hardworking, and deeply committed to their children’s education, they believed that opportunity would follow perseverance. But the transition wasn’t easy.
Despite their trust in the system, the family quickly ran into challenges. Their daughter, Janae, was placed in the wrong academic stream and grade, creating confusion and stress for the entire family. At the same time, Ann Marie struggled to find employment, leaving the family with only one income and mounting pressure.
That’s when United Way’s Ujima program stepped in.
A dedicated success coach became their advocate—working with the school to place Janae in the appropriate grade and stream based on her age and potential. The coach didn’t stop there. Understanding how important stability and independence was to the family they also helped Ann Marie explore job options and, eventually, enroll in school herself. By February 2024, she was attending classes, building new skills, and shaping a path forward.
Robert and Ann Marie didn’t just accept help—they leaned into it.
They attended school meetings with their success coach, supported Janae in joining extracurricular activities, and kept encouraging her to dream bigger. With her mother back in school and then later working full time alongside her father, Janae began to thrive. Her outlook shifted, her motivation soared, and her success followed.
Today, both parents are employed full time and saving to buy their first home in Canada. Janae has been accepted into the college program of her choice—complete with entrance scholarships. She’s also completed well beyond the required number of volunteer hours and is currently looking for a summer job.
The impact has been profound.
“We are so grateful for United Way and the Ujima program,” says Ann Marie. “They have made our coming to Canada such a rewarding experience. I will never forget the day opening the door to our apartment and seeing Mr. Brown standing with bags on top of bags of Christmas gifts for myself and the children. Never in my life have I experienced such generosity.”
The support didn’t just benefit Janae—it uplifted the whole family. Her younger brother is also thriving in school, and the family now speaks of their future in Canada with excitement and confidence.
“To see not just our daughter, but our son as well, flourishing in the school system, is a result of them being in the program,” adds Robert.
From uncertainty to stability, this family’s journey is a powerful reminder that with the right support and a family’s unwavering resolve, anything is possible.
Learn more about On Track to Success.