The mother of a newborn baby in recovery from addiction has a new job. Her Wish List need is a new car for her new life.
The Enquirer and United Way of Greater Cincinnati have joined forces for the 31st year to promote the Wish List giving season providing assistance for families in need. Today, learn the story of Covington mother Shae Clem.
Shae Clem, 30, gave birth Nov. 1 to a daughter. The Covington resident is married and has two other children.
Her husband is in jail, and she's worked to overcome drug addiction. Clem wants to work to get her two other children and stepdaughter back into her custody.
"I've struggled with a lot of things, but I'm most proud of the mother I was to my children before I let drugs into my life," she said.
To that end, Clem has graduated from Life Learning Center's 12-week life skills program this fall. She successfully completed a 10-week drug addiction rehabilitation program prior to entering the life skills program.
Clem connected with Life Learning Center when the nonprofit's representatives came to her 10-week drug treatment class.
"When I started here, I immediately saw my life change," she said.
Methods for coping with pressure, managing finances and relationships are part of Life Center's method to put program entrants on a healthier life path, program director Denise Govan said.
"I learned so many things about how to just deal with daily stresses, finances and religion," Clem said.
Now, Clem starts work at a new job Monday, Dec. 4.
"Without a car, it's very hard to get to my job," she said. "It's a senior living facility in Florence. I want to be reliable in this job."
What is their wish for the Wish List giving season?
Receiving $5,000 will provide Clem with a used reliable car to get to work, a one-month deposit to secure permanent housing and Christmas gifts for her children. She wants to get a play kitchen for her 3-year-old daughter and a scooter for her 3-year-old son.
“To me, the holiday season means being with my kids and mom – it’s not about money or gifts," Clem said. "As long as I have them, everything else is a bonus."
Donations may be made online to help at this web address: www.uwgc.org/wishlist​​​​​​​.