Building a Foundation for Success

Northern Tier Community Action Corporation

Jessica McMahon

Jessica McMahon is a twenty-three year old mother of a five-year-old son and three-year- old daughter. Jessica, referred by the McKean County Assistance Office, enrolled in the Supported Work Program (SWP) operated by Northern Tier Community Action Corporation in September of 2006. After facing a period of mental anguish, Jessica struggled with depression, insecurity, and self-esteem issues and was unable to acquire a self-sustaining job to care for her children and herself.

Northern Tier's Supported Work Program provided Jessica with an avenue to develop the self-esteem and self-determination she needed to begin down road of self-sufficiency. She set goals with the guidance from case managers Sharon Whiteman and Ellen Overton. First and foremost, Jessica needed a job.

After searching for a new job to help her reach her goal of self-sufficiency, Jessica started working at a CVS Pharmacy in Bradford and became involved in the company's on the job apprentice training program. Jessica started working ten hours a week and in a short time her hours were increased to twenty-five hours a week. Her supervisor at CVS stated she wishes for ten employees like Jessica, loving her enthusiasm, determination and positive attitude.

"I believe in the Supported Work Program, because if it wasn't for them I would not have completed any of the programs," says Jessica.  

Northern Tier also connected Jessica with their Child Care Information Services. The program helped Jessica to have childcare for her children while she is working, allowing her to work more consistent hours.

Recently, Jessica moved out of her mother's house into an apartment of her own. She is happy to have a home to provide to her children, a place to call their own. She is proud to have become self-sufficient and is able to care for her family.  

Northern Tier Community Action Corporation provides programs leading to self-sufficiency in Cameron, Elk, McKean and Potter counties.