Participant Success Story: Eugenia Gaffney

Eugenia Gaffney, SENPH Participant

Eugenia Gaffney’s journey in farm work began as a young girl, spending summers in the fields with her great-uncle picking field peas alongside her cousins. What felt like simple summer work at the time planted the seeds of a strong work ethic rooted in family, tradition, and resilience. She also grew up watching her family gather pine straw from her grandfather’s pine trees each year, witnessing firsthand the hard labor that sustained generations before her.

During a particularly difficult season in her life, Eugenia stepped into that same pine straw work herself to provide for her family. That opportunity came exactly when she needed it most, helping her survive a challenging time and reminding her of the strength she carries from those who came before her.

Today, Eugenia is a single mother of two children and is currently pursuing an Associate Degree in Science of Nursing at Southeastern Technical College in Vidalia, Georgia. She began her studies on August 18, 2025, driven by the desire to build a better future not only for herself but for her children.

Through the support of Southeast Non-Profit Housing, Eugenia has been able to turn generations of farm work, sacrifice, and perseverance into a pathway toward higher education and stability. Her story is a reflection of the enduring legacy of Black farmworkers — a legacy of strength, determination, and hope — and stands as a powerful reminder during Black History Month that when communities invest in one another, futures are changed.

Participant Success Story: Luzmiriam Reyes Avila

Luzmiriam Reyes Avila enrolled in the Southeast Non-Profit Housing program in the Fall 2025 as a full-time student in the Radiologic Technology program at Southeastern Technical College while facing significant financial and transportation barriers. Coming from a low-income, farmworker household, she relied primarily on financial aid and limited family income to support her educational goals.

Throughout her participation, she received comprehensive support through needs-related payments, transportation assistance, nutritional assistance, academic counseling, and ongoing case management. These services helped stabilize her circumstances and allowed her to remain fully engaged in her coursework and clinical training.

Despite experiencing delays in stipend processing and challenges with technology access, Luzmiriam demonstrated strong perseverance and maintained consistent communication with program staff. When her laptop malfunctioned during her final semester, the program provided immediate assistance to ensure she could continue preparing for her licensure examination without interruption. Program staff also maintained regular follow-up and attended her graduation ceremony in December 2025 in recognition of her accomplishments.

In December 2025, Luzmiriam successfully completed the Radiologic Technology program, earned her Associate degree, and passed the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) exam. She obtained her professional certification and is prepared to enter the healthcare workforce as a Radiologic Technologist.

This outcome reflects the effectiveness of individualized case management, timely supportive services, and strong participant engagement. Luzmiriam’s successful transition from training to credential attainment demonstrates the program’s impact in reducing barriers, promoting persistence, and supporting participants in achieving long-term employment and economic self-sufficiency.

Saray’s Path Forward: From Student to Healthcare Professional

Saray’s story is one of focus, perseverance, and possibility. A senior in high school and the proud daughter of a farm worker, Saray is already building a future in healthcare with intention and confidence. With dreams of studying radiation therapy, she’s taken meaningful steps early on, becoming both a CNA and a phlebotomy technician before even graduating. Along the way, staying focused hasn’t always been easy, but Saray credits the guidance and encouragement of her Career Advisor for helping her navigate challenges and stay on track toward her goals.

Here, Saray shares how having a mentor by her side has made a difference — offering support, accountability, and reassurance at key moments. Her journey is a reminder that success doesn’t come from doing it alone, but from having people who believe in your potential and help you see what’s possible. Watch the full video to hear Saray’s story, learn about her career path, and see how mentorship can open doors for the next generation.