Hi my name is Alexandria McClain. I am a single mother of three and I live in Brockton. I made a dramatic move from Rhode Island to Massachusetts to better my life and my kids. One day I was in line in DTA (Dept. of Transitional Assistance) and a colorful flyer (TRA-Brockton CIES Flyer) caught my eye. I had so many thoughts in my head, “Where am I going to find an activity DTA will approve? Where will I start? The flyer had highlighted in bold that DTA recipients are eligible for this program. I had an appointment with my case worker and I told him that I’m very interested in this program but I don’t know much about it. I did my research and I got a referral.

On my first day I was very nervous and sad. I couldn’t believe I was in this situation again, you know just having very bad luck and the consequences to past bad decisions. But from the minute I met Maribel (TRA-Brockton CIES Intake Specialist) I felt comfortable and welcomed. I found every aspect of the program helpful. It allows you to reanalyze yourself and prioritize the things that need to be done and the things we all may want. This program gives unfortunate people and situations hope, more knowledge – and (they) are very helpful here.

The best part I like about the CIES Program (at TRA-Brockton) is the computer training. Although it can be repetitive, it’s very challenging and hilarious with trick questions. I obtained an offer of employment on February 24, 2015 through a connection the Employment Specialist at TRA had, after only being here for about 4 weeks. My interview was successful because of my (TRA-Brockton) Instructor and Employment Specialist who were dramatically involved with us, and my appreciation is beyond words. I encourage anyone who may be having difficulty and needs help…Don’t be discouraged! There are programs like TRA that bring hope and success!

*This letter was read by Sean Beasley, Assistant Director of the Brockton Transitional Assistance Office, at the Brockton DTA Certification Event for DTA program participants held on February 26, 2015. Alexandria was unable to attend because she was happily working at her new full time job in sales at the Women’s Department at Nordstrom Rack where she was recently recognized for her good work!