My story is similar to many I have seen on here...I can only pray that my prayers be heard. I am a single mother of 2, ages 6 & 8. I have been trying to get my ddegree in the medical field for over 6 yrs now, but find life, family, and income constantly get in my way of finishing. I have worked since I was 15 untill I had my kids. I am very humble, caring little for money or material things. I am just so damn sick, and depressed..it seems I can't seem to get my head above water. With rent, utilities, and the constant needs for my kids like clothes, shoes and school supplies...And well I have no one..my family has all passed away, shoot I am desperate just to get some form a decent paying job, atleast just to be able to afford life untill I can finish my schooling. In 5 months I can be certified as a phlebotomist or med asst, but my TANF doesn't even cover my rent. I have a 1bd for me and my babies, and it costs $750/mo while my TANF is only $634...I do't even know how I will make the rent next month!! i usually rely on the extra income from the Pell Grant, but my last semester at SRJC I failed my classes at the very end of the semester because my car took a dump and I missed the finals. I had above a B average in all my classes up till that point too! So now I have a hold on my transcripts and grant till I repay the school $300. I even applied for a student loan, but thanks to my ex my credit is crap, and I would need a co-signer for a measly $6,000 loan...and well being as I am alone in the world..I don't even have anyone to ask to do that for me. I just want to stop struggling to barely survive, and I know the only way to ever achieve the financial independence I desire is to finish my higher ed. and get a career, but how to accomplish that, and not drown in the meantime seems beyond my capabilities...Oh God please hear my heart, my prayers, my tears...Amen