Growing Up Poor In America (full documentary) | FRONTLINE
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- Опубликовано: 7 сен 2020
- The documentary, "Growing Up Poor in America", follows three children and their families in the battleground state of Ohio as the COVID-19 pandemic amplifies their struggle to stay afloat.
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In early 2020, it was estimated that almost 12 million children in America were living in poverty - a burden disproportionately borne by Black and Latino kids. Then came the coronavirus.
Director Jezza Neumann, who made 2012's “Poor Kids,” once again delves into how poverty impacts children. As the pandemic continues, the presidential election approaches and America reckons with racism, FRONTLINE offers a powerful look at child poverty in the time of COVID-19 - told from the perspective of the children themselves. The film is supported by the WNET “Chasing the Dream” initiative.
#Documentary #ChildPoverty #Coronavirus
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Funding for FRONTLINE is provided through the support of PBS viewers and by the Corporation for Public Broadcasting. Major funding for FRONTLINE is provided by the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation and the Ford Foundation. Additional funding is provided by the Abrams Foundation, the Park Foundation, and the FRONTLINE Journalism Fund with major support from Jon and Jo Ann Hagler on behalf of the Jon L. Hagler Foundation. Support for Growing Up Poor in America is provided by WNET’s Chasing the Dream initiative on poverty and opportunity in America, with funding by The JPB Foundation.
we grew up in the poorest area in Orlando. My parents, especially my mother pushed all 7 of us to seek education. She called me Dr. Shirley all the time and now look.... its official now!
Congrats my Sister! So proud of you! Now go and be great! God Bless
seriously congrats what kind of Doctor and how did you pay for college
Congratulations 👏
Congratulations 🎊🎆🎊 God bless you and your family 🙏
That is amazing, congratulations! I’m sure you make your parents very proud!
This boy has more emotional maturity than most adults I know...
Dumb comment
Yeah a bunch of SJW adults.
@Sky Captain Revolution is born of hardship.
@@pgaquigz1125 which comment is dumb to you?
I love those kids!
The way that baby cried for his teacher let’s you know she was an amazing teacher !!
That broke my heart. You can tell he admired her and she made a positive impact on him.
She was my 6th grade teacher and waived the fee for my school trip bc my family didn't have the $250, she was awesome
I've been blessed enough to have teachers like that. ❤
That broke my heart.
That broke my heart.
The way Shawn's sister looked at him with concern when he was crying after hearing his teacher passed away... my heart 🥺💜
The most expensive thing is to be poor in America
SO true!!!
Come to Balkan and say that again,worst part is that your passport is not accepted anywhere
That's due to the fact that,even under the so called "poverty line",your standard of living is higher %90 of the rest of the planet.
This is already poor??? Go to the Philippines and watch this again.
You damn right. I’ve laid down at night not knowing where my next meal was coming from, I hated it for my boyfriend. We were both out of work at the time, I’m blessed to say we both have a stable income for the time being. I was an adult, it hurt me. It kinda traumatized me in a way because I’m still weird with food and wasting anything. My family is a middle class family, it infuriates me the way they waste. I couldn’t imagine being a child or having children and being in the situation we were in. I pray we never have to go through that again. This just makes me cry. I wish I could take all these families, give them a home and a reliable vehicle for those who need it, and a stable job. Or just a stable job of that’s all they need. I just wish I could do something. ):
Asking God to forgive me for every time I've been ungrateful.
Seriously feel the same now too
Yes same here. Everything counts. So many things you don’t think of, until you’re the one providing.
For real!!!
A lot people are very ungrateful, including me at times
Hi
The mom shouldn’t give her son the role of brother father. That adult responsibility that he shouldn’t have.
Yes however I thought that was sweet
Very true. I can't stand to see single mothers who turn their kids into adults while they're still kid. And it's all because the mother and father made bad choices.
Parentification isn't sweet, it sets up kid for issues later in life that they didn't deserve.
A mother shouldn't turn her kid into an adult because she made bad choices.
Well now she has no choice.
Shawn’s insight and introspection is impressive. For such a young man to have the self awareness in any socioeconomic condition would be exceptional but the fact that he’s dealing with poverty, a loss of his teacher etc, is profound. I hope life becomes easier for him and his family.
I was very impressed with him. He will go far in life.
Meanwhile the Stolen Lands of America speends US$1.5 billion only in propaganda to defame East Asia. Not to mention trillions in wars, coups d'état and proxy terrorism.
Most Americans don't realise how close they are to living like these people. Most are probably 2-3 steps of bad luck away. And yet they have no sympathy for these sweet people.
@ufoguyspaceman And who's going to pay for all that? You already have rent assistance in place plus 48% of the US population on benefits of some kind. That's already a massive distortion of market forces. You need to rethink that statement.
@ufoguyspaceman No, you're very far from that. Don't underestimate the power of capitalism. Most Americans are still hopelessly wedded to the American dream.
70% don't have $1000 for an emergency, so yes many of us could end up homeless, but I make automatic 401k deductions to ensure I can go a couple years without a job.
@ufoguyspaceman ok commie
I'M HOMELESS AS I TEXTS THIS, SINCE LOW INCOME HOUSING PROGRAM RATE HAS WENT UP AND I DON'T EVEN KNOW IF SECTION EIGHT EXIST! I BEEN IN AND OUT THE SHELTER! I WENT THROUGH THE HOUSE PROGRAM, AND I'M ON A FIX INCOME! ME PERSONAL BEING IN THE SHELTER AND TO HAVE MY STUFF STOLEN FROM ME IN ALL SHELTERS, THE EMERGENCY SHELTER FOR THE WINTER BROKE THE CAMELS BACK THEY TOOK ALL MY BELONGINGS! NOW AS FAR AS THE HOUSING PROGRAM I HAD TO START OVER AGAIN, I'M ON THE HOUSING LIST! I'M ON THE STREET AND NOW SINCE THE PANDEMIC IS HERE, THE SHELTER IS OFF THE TABLE! I HAVE SOME HEALTH ISSUES, CONJESTIC HEART FAILURE, AND HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE, AND ASTHMA, I GET EFFECTED LIGHT OUT FOR ME, FLAT OUT! I BEEN LIVING ON THE STREET FOR YEAR AND HALF! GOD HAVE BEEN COVERING ME! THIS TO SHALL PASS!😇😇😇 GIVE GOD THE PRAISE!🙏🙏🙏🙏
3 stories, 6 children, ( 0) fathers 🤦🏽♀️. Fathers need to step up this is sickening!!. The kids are awesome
I agree , but the blame is still on the Mother. Before she became the mommy, she had options. A" get with the nerdy, unpopular, lame dude whos only concern school, a job, and being a future family man. B" You get with Tommy whos popular, likes weed, appeals to your immature rebellious side ( seems fun) , doesn't have future financial goals, already ran though a bunch of other girls , but your baddest , so he'll never leave you. Inspired Musician though they lack real skills , but pays the bills via Drug dealing or Theft. Which are lifestyles most women ignore, but that " Bad Boy " flare just convinced you that he's better in BED than option " A". This here is the outcome of CHOOSING option "B", then later findin that opt "A" would have been better for your kids , who youre now single with and through gossip find out opt " A" is a monster in Bed with the " Equipment" to match..
Again they're struggling due to poor life choices..
They lost me with " Blaming being BLACK, for crappy choices"
@@yoshuadhebrew135 r/inceltears
Or we need to normalize women working high paying jobs, encourage young girls to become engineers,pilots,lawyers,accountants etc so if they choose to have a family they have a high paying trade they can use to provide for their children regardless if the father is in the picture. Because absentee fathers are going to keep happening.
How about these women quite having multiple children..does nobody know how babies are made..the benefits single women get w kids is a lot compared to single men who are ordered to pay child support. They get Nothing but are expected to pay at least $700 per month for a 2 child mother..and he has to pay rent n utilities and food n gas...people Never think of the men only in deadbeat dads. Wake up people. The blame is on both parents but only women get assistance!
I got divorced and my ex husband still took excellent care of our child. I reminded her constantly how lucky she was that no matter what her Dad loved and cared for her. He had her once a week and every other weekend. A few weeks in the Summer. We shared holidays. He gave me my child support check every month without having to be asked. He bought half her clothing throughout the year. He loved his time with her. Our child died at age 12 in an accident. We will never recover from that but we have no regrets on how we treated her. How can the fathers of all these children not even care enough to make sure their children don't starve?
Thank you sharing your story. And I'm sorry that you lost your daughter.
@@katiebanks7460 thank you for your kind reply 💖
I am sorry for the loss of your precious daughter. I had the same experience with my ex. My daughter and I were lucky. Praying for you
@@kcflygirl29 thank you 😊
That’s what a real man does…I’m sorry for your loss
I have tears in my eyes...strawberries. The young lady's desire was for strawberries--something we grab and throw in our carts without a second thought. That was her source of joy, getting a $2.50 container of strawberries to eat.
I am so hurt by this. I will be looking up local food banks tomorrow to see how I can help.
I found it quite interesting though that they had the latest hairstyles, phones, new sneakers, nails done, and designer handbags.
@@AccessoriesAddict5528 it looks like they lived comfortably before their mother was out of work. Were they supposed to sell the only remaining belongings they had? The mother probably has a cosmetology license b/c she is a nail tech, thats why nails/hair is done. Do you want them to be unkempt b/c they fell on hard times?
@@PurpleGlamx3 Ebony dear, I just commented that it was interesting. Relax. ✌🏽
@@AccessoriesAddict5528 it wasn’t “just a comment”, it was condescending. Judging their priorities b/c they have nice things as if they shouldn’t since they fell on hard times temporarily. Sometimes we should just be mindful of how the things we say come across.
@@PurpleGlamx3 I said what I said. Sweet Dreams. ✌🏽
We waste 50% of our food and yet our own people starve.
That's inhumane.
There should be no people starving in this country with the food pantries, homeless shelters, free meals (up to 3 a day at school even during the closures), food stamps, etc. Even McDonalds is giving away free meals to children.
Who is starving? Where? I dont believe it.
Some of these kids are overweight, not starving gtfoh
@@brainwashingdetergent4128 homeless and some out there. Not as bad as third world but many have malnutrition. Much good health stuff is not easy to get to because transportation is arm and leg of cost even for public transportation. Choosing between food, healthcare, and travel...bills are like that some times.
@@andrewmann4067 yeah some. Some because health reasons and not just for food reasons. Just cause a kid looks fat does not mean it it is because junk food.
Nothing would make me happier than finding out how successful Shawn is 20 years from now.
Love this comment ♥️♥️
Shawn is an amazing young man.praying that he will be a successful adult. He has a good head on his shoulder and a good heart.
Agreed shawn is so sweet and hardworking
He seems like such a likeable young man. The compassion he shows towards his mom, sister, and teacher who died is admirable. His mom should be very proud of the kind and hardworking person she is raising. At the end of the day, this matters far more than money.
These kids touched my heart. If I could heal the world for them I would💜💜
My heart goes out to all these kids. As the son of divorced parents I know exactly what it feels like to be thrown into poverty. As a single mom, I remember her working so hard and never giving up. There were times when I wondered if my brothers and I were going to make it. We did and I am approaching retirement as a lawyer today.
Wow, congratulations!
What an amazing little man Shawn is! Beautiful boy indeed. My heart cries for these families. I wish we humans could learn to accept, support and help each other. Imagine how different life could be.
Dogs are kinder
So sad, little kids should not be growing up that fast💔
What makes me sad are these kids saying “we.” “We can’t afford to...” “We don’t have...” “We couldn’t keep our house...” “We ran out of money...” These kids are taking on adult situations at no fault of their own.
@Aimee Webber probably also considers herself to be Christian. SMH. Poverty causes trauma and affects a developing brain. It's been widely documented, because they kids live in a stress induced fight or flight response constantly.
@Aimee Webber oh heck no, dear lady you didn’t just type that mess..
Who are you to judge someone?, make sure ur closet is clean before u open ur mouth. You don’t really know the whole situation!
Yeah, that's what happens when parents can't pay the bills, happened to myself as a child.
Children aren't stupid. They understand a lot more than we give them credit for, especially now with all this access to information.
SO GET A JOB, they are out there
McDonalds has its problems, but offering free lunch to school-age kids is pretty cool. For some, that may be all they eat in a day.
I agree. Any food is better than no food. I do wish they would add more fresh options to the menu though. I hope they never stop offering this
Factsssss!!!
Where is this particular McDonald’s ?
@@AlexxWoodwick so why McDonalds do not offer free food for school agde kids in Europe? in Russia? in Azerbaijan? Does it mean USA is poorest country in the world?
It's awesome that, that particular McDonald's did do that but McDonald's are franchise's so it's the Owner and that is amazing. I wish I could help all 3 families....
My family consisted of mom,dad and 9 children. We lived out in the country in an old brick house with no a/c or heating. Winters were rough as our only source of heat was a fireplace in the living room. The house was a 2-bedroom only. We were poor. My mother would sew our dresses and she would take pride in her work. My father worked 7 days a week to support the family. He was a proud man. He never wanted any government assistance. We didn’t have much. But, we never went hungry and always had clothes and shoes. As children we didn’t know how poor we were because we had each other and we’re happy with what little we had. At a very young age of 8 yrs old I learned to make home made corn tortillas. Later I learned to sew my own clothes. We didn’t ask for much. We knew our parents were doing their best.
That amazingAbout u parents!!!!!!in this documentary I see food, shelter,iPhones, nice nails, computers, been different color has nothing to do I think is all about respect to others if you respect everyone will respect you! My family is only husband and son and we work hard for my son REALLY HARD! Harder than a normal person!
Not an easy life. But a life of dignity & self reliance. I always admire families like yours. And though my family was solidly middle class, as a child I had friends whose lifestyle was more similar to yours. I always felt welcome in their homes and even at a young age was impressed by how they made life fun & comfortable as possible within their limited resources.
Yes. My four siblings and I are first generation Irish and 1st generation to go to college. Not saying that everyone needs college, but maybe a trade or vocational school is helpful. We didn't have extra & did without, unless we couldpay for it. I know my sister and I had paper routes & babysitting. We all worked hard year-round & paid off every student loan. Our house was a 2br ranch with one bathroom. You learned sharing and helping always. One car, which my parents shared. Waited for rides or walked. Our little subdivision was a bit different as we changed elementary schools 4 times!!! And that is difficult for a young child. Lots of bullying about my skin & hair color. I think adversity teaches perseverance.
Im sorry for all this but 9 kids!!! That’s the issue. Don’t have so many kids if u can’t take care of 1 !!!!!
My grandparents had 10 children! They had it somewhat rough, my grandfather worked 2 jobs but 10 children!! That is a lot of mouths to feed. They got by though and my dad, aunts and uncle's were able to be in sports and go to catholic school but that meant a lot of sacrifices. I don't know how they did it but they did. My grandmother made dresses and did alterations at home while she raised the kid's. I think being poor now a day's is probably a little more difficult compared to back then in some ways.
I feel so bad for Laiyken. That’s basically exactly how I felt in school; unable to concentrate well, reading paragraph after paragraph of textbooks but the facts never sticking, feeling I was just not smart enough. She really needs meds and likely counseling. Very few people take ADHD in girls seriously, and it’s crucial to get a handle on it young, I didn’t get my diagnosis until I was in my 20s.
When the boy lost his teacher... this proves how our educators impact the youth.
Would you rather him loose his teacher or loose his life?
@@Kiz-0 seriously? That's all you have to say? The kid clearly liked that teacher. Grow up.
@@christinefaul3811 bo hoo a lot of kids like their teacher not just him but they should still stay home as many kids have resptory problems.
@@Kiz-0 insensitive
@@Kiz-0 your disgusting
"I was held back because I was not smart" What a tragic thing to make or allow a child to believe.
agreed
Right... that would without a doubt affect a child’s mentally. Trust me that’s a awful feeling. That’s why I’m not gonna let my future child experience that feeling.
Her mother allows her not to take the medicine that would help her focus.
Why does her mom allow her to wear a shirt that shouts COKE all over it. She it's a soft drink, but be real, you and I both know what it applies.
Kathy Abel that’s such a stretch don’t even go there
My heart broke when the kid talked about how great Mrs matters was and then shortly after found out she passed away and started crying, he just got done explaining how important she was. Damn.
Shawn is very mature for his age. Such an amazing kid.
Anyone noticed that NONE of these kids complain about their lives? They are so strong and mature...its unreal how so many of us have more than we should and sometimes forget how privileged we are :(
I am from India and yes African American people suffer lot as white too. We need to be kind towards eachother as we are human race at the end
@@the_unconventional_Indian77 poverty in india is way worse than that one on the video.
Being a poor mother myself, i teach my kids to be grateful for all we do have..a roof over our heads, food on the table, and live in our hearts. Never have they complained about being poor..of course they have wants like the next person, but how they handle it amazes me. I try to stay humble, but am proud of them, my heart smiles that they are happy, even in trying times
@@urfavchickenlegs8797 Poverty anywhere sucks for those inflicted! Let’s not compare, just do your part to make it better.
@@the_unconventional_Indian77 stop bringin race everywherw duh 😒, thats lame, the OP doesnt even talk about race, she talked about the kids in the video
What a shame, all these kids going through a hard time without their fathers. The fatherlessness in this country is a pandemic too and men need to do better.
The best
How about not giving sole custody to the mother? If it was split custody at least men would have a reason to contribute, but the current situation treats men as ATMs rather than a parent. Let the damn men see their children.
Kekkai coming from a person who grew up in a broken home the courts gave my meth addiction literal neonazi mother custody over my dad for 9 and a half years because my dad worked.
@@iandunn989 So sorry. I've heard that before where courts favors the mother. But I know of other people whom their fathers just chose to be irresponsible including my own father and my wife's father.
preach
Sean..poor baby, he must’ve had such a wonderful teacher. His reaction was heartbreaking, these people deserve so much more.
I cried when I saw Shawn cry for his teacher. I send hugs to these families and pray their situation gets better. I get mad thinking about why the fathers aren’t there to help their family out. It is not easy being a single mom. I have been there.
When that young man wept for his teacher, that broke me.
Yes, I was crying
Me2
Yes, it broke my heart.💔
I am a retired teacher and I’m in tears....
Me too 😭
I know one thing: whatever woman ends up with the adult Shawn is gonna be set with a straight up Man. I hope that kid goes places.
Or man ✌🏻
@@manuelitosinatra9456 in the video, the girl gets 10 thousand dollars and considers herself poor I live in Russia with my mother in a 3-room apartment and there is a dacha but we get in Russia my mother lives on welfare and gets $ 144 a month and I work 6 hours every day and get$ 171 but you still need to pay for an apartment somewhere 92$ a month and also pay for a dacha somewhere a year 78$ so think about how much your country America is really a great country. And you also need to buy food in order to live
@@US_BLack_Six $10,000 in the US is not the same as $10,000 where you are, cost of living varies from country to country, there is not an apartment anywhere in the US that is less than $350 a month, most cities rent starts around $500 a month ($6000/year) unless you are renting just a room
@@LaurenOpara101 rent where I live in the USA is about $1,200 for a decent one bedroom
@@manuelitosinatra9456 thank you. I was thinking exactly the same thing.
It hurts my heart so much seeing Shawn have to be a father figure to his sister. My brother was to me looking back I remember he didn’t ask for anything if I wanted something in the store, he would ask for less for Christmas so I could get more. He shouldn’t have had to do that for me but he did and I’m so grateful for him.
Not me crying along with Shawn. 😢 He is a pure soul. I really hope that the world doesn't kill his light.
Shawn is such a sweet child. I hope this world doesn’t break his spirit.
It won’t it will make him stronger. I am a first generation Immigrant and all my siblings and I were very poor and sometimes homeless because our own uncle ripped us off. We were 9 and we all worked in the fields. We are strong and we all work still every one is either a professional or a business owner or both . Thanks to God.
They live so near me, it's all I can do not to go find him and squeeze him till he pops 😭😭 (that might be frowned upon, however lol). That he spoke so highly of his teacher says a lot abt her as well, RIP Ms. Manners.
That's why Black Lives Matter! So he will grow-up as a man without fear.
God bless these families 🙏 Shawn is a bright young man!
@@naishamorales6574 It broke me when he cried after hearing about is teacher passing away. I hope he does well. He is such a sweet kid.
That Shawn is really a special child. I wish nothing but the best for him.
A beautiful child he is ❤️ from the inside out
Agreed!! It broke my heart to know how much weight he carries for his family. Such a sweet boy!!
They may be poor in monetary terms but they are wealthier than most with the love that they have.
@@giovannigiudice1078 agreed
He is such a good boy I’m praying for all of you god bless you
The teacher who taught me how to read holds that place in my heart.
My heart just breaks for these families. These moms who are trying to keep their families together get all the respect. I can’t even imagine how hard that is.
When Shawn started to cry when he heard his teacher Mrs, Matter passed away cause of cancer it broke my heart 💔😢
That's exactly where I paused it! Took a breather and will be back soon!
Poor kiddo, he has a soft heart
As a cancer survivor myself this got to me too 😪
That literally made me cry
I cried as well you can tell he really cared and appreciated his teacher what a kind young man. Shawn I wish you well hang in there I will pray for you and your family. Much love brother
First thought that should come to everyone’s mind...where’s dad? What’s wrong with the American male today? Of all colors.
You are right
Please say that to the men who blame the women for having the child out of wedlock but claim to be pro life!
The American man is under attack look at who divorces first.. statistics i mean, look at who has 30 plus birth control options
We can say that, but we also could assume that mom isnt capable of communication and or relationships, or following thru with making the father pay.. If the fathe is alive and around, why is she not after dad for child support?
Agreed!
I hope these kids make it. That little girl who said she cant imagine living this way , I pray she holds tight to her determination. If you see this , keep going sweetheart. You can do it
That Candy lady is so sweet, people like her deserve so much more recognition for what they do.
Shawn is such a beautiful person. I hope he goes places
More like all of them.
I would really like to help these families..do we know how to get in touch with them..is there a organization..?
I agree
Fr.. He'll be a great husband
@@mannyzification let me know if you find out any details on supporting these families. I also would like to support them anyway possible.
I like ALL these kids, but Shawn really stood out to me, he's really taking on a huge burden helping his mom and being that "man" of the house. Brought tears to my eyes when he found out his favorite teacher passed.
Me too 🥺
Same, I’m a teacher and it’s a good reminder of how I can make an impact in my student’s lives. It broke my heart, he’s such a lovely young man.
I see him doing things to rise out of the poverty.
It's not fair to him. I went through that being "the man of the house" whenever my father was in the hospital. I hustled nickles and dimes delivering groceries or picking them up for seniors on the block. I delivered chickens and eggs or a Long Island fresh chicken company, I sold junk I'd found and gave it all to my mother. My school work failed and I never had a youth. No playing, no friends. I had too much responsibility. Kids need to be kids while they're kids. His mother like mine laid a heavy guilt trip us.
Me too
The 2 teen girls with their mom, I am so impressed at how mature they are.
well they had to grow up kinda fast
@@taylorm1997so true. At the age of 12 I was catapulted into poverty, and I had to grow up way faster than any other kids my age. At the age of 12 I had to take care of a newborn and my 10 year old brother, because my
Mom was a newly single mother and had no one to help. Learned how to take care of children instead of learning how to divide fractions.
@@taylorm1997 They are very mature for their age you just saying that because they black
All of these MIA dads need to be held responsible as well!! 😡
Right? Where are the fathers?
Yes!
The women pick these deadbeats. I'm sure they came across better men they probably didn't want.
Crystal is so lucky to have Shawn for a son. “I’m listening” ...how respectful. He’s an incredible kid
He comes from a good tree, good mama made a good boy.
Or you can end up helping others.
His mom is lovely too. No coincidence.
That's kid going to do amazing thing I hope the best for him
Woah
Well, I lost it when that boy broke down after losing his favorite teacher. Damn, some people get more than their share of hardships in life.
Hearing him break down made me cry
@@linhn9434 Me too. He is such a sweety. He didn't deserve all of that.
Bruh I cried ...
True
Same. 😩
When Shawn said there aren’t many people here my “ color”
That broke my heart baby you’re just as important and beautiful as ANYONE else !!!
My Godmother - who has a scholarship to help young Black men get some money for college - asks a genuine question for families in poverty, "Where are the men?" That question holds power in this documentary. As a man, it just makes me sick to see these kids abandoned by their father. There are so many men out there who don't have kids who could make great fathers, and so many fathers are out there who should never have had children in the first place. Just a damn shame.
The fact that some people in these comments think Shawn is "doing too much" by being there for his mom and sister is a prime example of how screwed up America is. THEY'RE FAMILY. SHE'S HIS MAMA and that's his SISTER. All they have is each other. These times and his character are creating a great heart, mind and soul for him. God blessed him and I'm glad he is doing what family should do for each other.
Thank you!
EXACTLY right--and that little girl may be what keeps him going when he wants to give up some day. I was a kid like this. Dad left, mom was on drugs and welfare. One day someone told me that my life would not always be like it was. They were right. Today I am rich by comparison, even though I'm just middle class to everyone else. I wish I could tell Shawn the same. He will be a better human for going through this.
@@tiffanyoneill90 I'm so happy you came out on top Love 💖.
When the Boy started crying when he found out his teacher passed ..Really crushed my heart ..he's such an innocent boy it's not fair someone like him and his family are going thru this...Praying for them
It's not fair for any family to be growing through this. Especially in America
Yes it broke my heart too. God bless a teacher who can touch a child in such a way. I pray he has a great future.
Yes that was hard to watch that baby hurt. God I wish I could financially help someone.😞
Praying is nice but helping/donating/volunteering doing something to help those in need is what's better.
@@devindavidson3976 I help the needy at least once a day .ur right Praying is awesome but action will change people's lives
When Shawn found out about Ms. Matters and started crying I started crying 😞💔 you don’t find teachers that truly care especially when you’re going through stuff and she even taught him how to read. Those things Shawn will never forgot I pray he is doing well but everyone in this documentary
This was a great documentary. As someone who grew up in Indiana with racist family, I was never exposed to African American culture or any kind of culture really until my late teenage years, and this made me cry thinking about how generational racism is, with my son coming soon I’m so glad I can be the one to break the chain.
I don’t understand why the black mom didn’t work. Did I miss something?
When that little girl said she got help back because she wasn’t smart. That actually broke my heart. Poverty is a cycle designed to disable future generations.
@Nathan Swain I am in no way a victim of any circumstance sir. You added absolutely nothing to this thread except to say I was “wrong,” (without providing any detail, which you in fact faulted me for to begin with.) then you proceeded to attack me, for what reason I’m not sure because I never gave any implication to my societal standing. I help people less than fortunate than me every chance I get, but that’s not something I’m going to sit here and broadcast in the comments of a RUclips video, because I’m not looking for recognition for anything other than to bring light to the FACT that statistically speaking. That In America, there is a serious design flaw which keeps poor people in poverty. Yes there are exceptions to the rule, but not everyone can be an exception for a multitude of reason. And for you to look at this so black and white just goes to show that poor people seen in the eyes of others as “lazy”. And that is just blatantly wrong. I urge you to do some research on this topic.
Macdonald's Giving Out Free Lunches Too School kids During Covid
Poverty is hardship, in a Rich Man's world.
@Nathan Swain Because explaining what's going on, is somehow "pretending to be a Victim."
@@emuriddle9364 yeah. Cause some people use hardship as an excuse, while others use it as fuel
"I feel drained and dark." This, from a child. That is terribly sad, and I hope they can find stability soon. These kids are wonderful.
That lack of stability messes with your head at an early age. Trust me, it changes you.
Our congress and trump have failed to keep USA safe and secure.
@angela ward I'm so sorry I've had a rough childhood as well stay strong and know that you've overcome those hard times ❤️
@@Mario_N64 yes indeed
Dang you have for real never heard that before from a kid. It’s very very popular where I live.. I was way more poor than any of the kids in this video, except it was for my whole life.. I knew a kid in 8th grade way before COVID that had both her arms covered in self harm scars, and I’ve seen plenty more.. I could never do the whole cutting thing. But I found that working out, punching or hitting myself, or burning or freezing my hands in water or a really cold shower would help... it’s not a Covid problem... it’s an America problem
I grew up in The Plains and Mrs Matters was my 6th grade teacher back in 2011 RIP.
Shawn is just amazing. I’m like he’s so young but his maturity level is amazing. This mad me sad because the children shouldn’t have to deal with poverty in this country
Dead beat dads. I couldn’t imagine leaving my family behind struggling like this. I pray that it will rain blessings on these people soon.
Yep. That what I see. I am not giving these ladies a pass for intentionally having babies with men who aren't married to them or anything. But still, if the father was around, that would be extra income, and even if they would still be struggling, it wouldn't be this bad. It amazes me how easily some men can just walking away from their own children they created, leaving them at the mercy of the government and even worse poverty. We need to encourage responsible procreation between both men and women. But also we need to shame men - any parent really - who just up and abandon children who didn't ask to be conceived by them. These children don't deserve deadbeat dads.
It is not always dead beat dads. Deadbeat moms also! Mom’s just check out & leave their children in the wind.
@@tarag7292 Some times that's not true the fathers can pass away or their parents can divorce.
@@francesorosco1166 True
@@BRKS627 if fathers (or mothers) pass away and they worked their whole adult lives, the kids will get a social security check. My friend lost her husband to cancer when he was 36. He'd been working since 16, so her kids got about 3K a month total. Looks like in these cases these women just chose losers to have children with who abandoned them.
Edit: i knew a lady who was raising her nephew because both parents died of drug overdoses. Neither had ever worked so...hardly any money came in
The boy from Ohio who’s taking care of his family gonna be a damn good dad one day.
NO..How bout a Dam Good "MAN"
@@mystique4eva990 . Because he’s a child silly
Here's a QUESTION we should ALL be asking:
Where's the father/man of the house?? every single one of them are single mothers with children. No income, no child support? probably all the fathers are in state penitentiaries?
My heart goes out to every family. Every child and parent is special. Shawn you grew on me bud!!
7th grade teacher here 🙋🏼♀️ Showing these kids they can break the cycle of poverty is the reason I became a teacher.
Thank you for your service we need more people like you! It warms my heart to learn that that teacher made such an impact on that boy's life and taught him how to read.
@Army of Gog so you feel you were indoctrinated to read, write, type, or use math by crap? Why you still using all that indoctrinated crap then?
Some can but third world not so much.
@@ecclairmayo4153 true there is some good that comes from learning.
While it was extremely sad and broke my heart, when Shawn started crying when he heard his teacher had passed away the first thing it made me think of is the power of teachers to change kids' lives. You can tell he will never forget her.
I grew up poor. With a single father, we had no car. My dad never had a driver’s license. I remember my neighbor gave us their old vacuum that had 3 wheels, I was so happy. We where still happy and I thank God for my grandparents. I started cooking at a very young age and had to grow up fast. When I look back, I think it helped me.
God bless you with many blessings in Christ's name Amen.
Same. I think growing up this way taught me strength.
much love to your dad ❤️ and grandparents ❤️
It really humbles us when we struggle at such a young age. And we develop very fast maturely
@@ThatsRNG Job Corps! I went to Angell Job Corps in1996 and San Jose Job Corps in 1991-1992.
That little boy is such a good person and a good brother taking care of his sister like that you can just see the love he has for her it warms my heart to see. He will be an amazing father one day. And he will always be his baby sisters super hero
What beautiful children. Every one of these kids have soul and character. The common denominator is that they all have wonderful Mothers, that love them.
That boy crying about his teacher broke me. I dont cry easily but damn..I cried with that. He is a strong boy..who will make a wonderful man.
Such a shame too. Because there are probably 2 teachers I would've cried for if lost, through my entire education up to my Bachelor degree. Considering how much time educators spend with students, they should hold themselves to better standards and allow that to rub off on students.
It made me cry too
That is, if the PTSD doesn't break him, sadly.
Oh my goodness, I broke down in tears right along with him. Poor kid.
It broke me when the little boy cried over his teacher's passing
EDIT: teachers deserve more than what society and the US education system gives them
Same 😢
Me too 💔 when the mama put her hand over her mouth I knew something was wrong 😥
He seems like a sensitive, thoughtful and responsible young man. Wishing him the best!
They also deserve more appreciation from the parents
@@senoracheapee1864 YES
This is my home state and things like this have always baffled me why some of these politicians make the decisions they make. Seeing how strong and resilient these people are so touching. Watching these babies share their experience is so heart warming and honestly made me cry. I truly hope they are doing better.
Prayers for ALL these families. This took alot of courage to tell their stories. I would love to see an update as to how they're doing now 🙏🏽
Kudos to the people who agreed to be filmed and share their lives with us. That takes a lot of courage.
well they got paid to help them out
I was thinking the exact same thing. Especially these young kids with bullying being such a problem these days. You really got to give credit to them for being on camera. As a matter of fact, I'm positive their strength from being filmed will propel them to future success.💫
I hope by doing so they are able to get help.
Facts
Truth
Kyas mom said something that struck me, “I never appreciated having a home until it was gone.” ALWAYS, ALWAYS be deliberately appreciative and thankful, pay it forward, sing the praises of even your smallest blessings.
I wonder why the grandmother hasn’t had her daughter and granddaughters live with her? I know things go on in families, however I couldn’t t rest knowing their homeless ijs. Obviously something has happened or went on that we don’t know about.
Usually its family who believe the propaganda that all homeless people are lazy, junkies or criminals... When someone in their family gets screwed over by the system and tells them what happened they blame their family members, or call them liars because it doesn't fit their mental narrative of what being homeless is, and they think you can go get a job easily, when anyone with a phone and address is chosen over the homeless person.
That stuck out to me too.
I think many of us don't appreciate what we had, until it's gone. We had a sweet little home, lovely little garden, and we had people over most weekends to chill, and have a barbeque. Then our little business folded due to people not paying their bills, and lost most everything. Even our church treasurer was mad at us because we weren't able to pay our full tithe! We're now renting a teeny one room flatlet from my son in law, for which we're super grateful. At least we do have a place to chill. After seeing this program, I'm super determined to be grateful for everything.
Amen 🙌🏽
Hearing those cries as mom breaks the news to Shawn broke me in half. I am literally watching this at work and sobbing
I cried when Shawn cried about his teacher’s passing. What a sweet boy. I hope his family’s financial situation gets better. 💕
That was touching. I hope he was able to tell the teacher's family how much she meant to him.
It hurt my heart too 😢
Omg, I cried too. This kid is so cool. I wish him the best in life. ❤️
I started bawling, that touched me deeply.
I did, too
After watching this, I will never complain again. I really wish the best for all of these families.
What should we do as a country to help these people?
@@roxarecool you can start small- donating your money or time to a local food pantry, homeless shelter or clothes donation center. Donating to orgs like Feeding America etc.
Jayden McDaniel your mindset is horrible
Jayden McDaniel use a dictionary or google it
It's definitely humbling and makes you count your blessings
Unfortunately this struggle is everywhere. Not just Ohio. That fact that these kids are being so mature and understanding of the situation they are in is amazing.
I fell completely in love with these families. The little boy crying over his teacher, made me cry too.
The thing about being poor that so many people don’t get is like.. the humiliation of it.. like when shawns mom has to go pick up his stuff and she has no vehicle.. small stuff like that all the time. I’m not saying she felt humiliated it seems she felt very grateful for the school supplies, etc. but that kind of thing all the time can really grind you down.
Yeah especially for someone who is more sensitive to that.
But the United States' car cultrue is nasty. In other real countries and a few of the big cities it's completely normal not to have a car.
Oh yeah, I've experienced that feeling before being embarrassed cause you donhave a car or can't afford a lap top for high school or you rely on school food that you get for free for being low income, etc. but really you got to be greatful for everything you do have. I had definitely took a lot for granted then. I'm an adult now & still not rich & wealthy yet lol, but now i try not to take it for granted & to do something about it
I grew up "that" poor kid. I'd argue that it gave me great perspective and shaped me into who I am today. This happened, in large part, because my mom, as poor as we were, always taught us to work hard and to value education. Shawn's mom reminds me of her. Despite the hand that life has dealt her, she is raising hardworking and compassionate kids. I sincerely respect her.
Completely agree, I'm one of them people. I think I'm the only parent in the school district who doesn't have internet so the Chromebooks were useless to me. Initially the school told me that I could sit in their parking lot for the kids to do their daily work , I have three in the school district and a three year old....
This is so true...and what's worse is there's groups of barely middle class people ready to demonize and criticize poor people rather than looking at the root cause of their issues with an open mind/ heart.
These families are showing me how much strength they have to deal with hard times,,God Bless you..
Thanks for making this documentary. I would love a follow up on these families and am rooting for them all. xoxo
I grew up in crack motels and I’m 33 now, I can tell you that these kids will be more mentally prepared for adulthood then any other group of kids. The price to pay is that they get no childhood which is heartbreaking. I can’t tell you how terrible it is to be a pre teen and have to worry about bills and a place to stay, unless you’ve been through it you don’t quite understand it. Stay strong kids 🙏🏻
My folks each worked two jobs when I was growing up. They did the best they could with what they had and they worked hard. I'm privileged, not because of material possessions because we had the necessities, but because Mom and Dad raised me the way they did. Young Shawn will grow up to be a good man with strong a character. Believe that. His Mom is raising her kids right. Wouldn't it be amazing if the Federal Government realized that CHARITY BEGINS AT HOME. We have a responsibility, duty and obligation to help other Americans above and beyond anyone else. The Homeless and poverty stricken, American men, women, children, elderly and Veteran's are literally refugees living within the boarders of their own country - THEIR HOME. It's inexcusable. I was Homeless once in my 30's. I lived in my car for 6 weeks.~APRIL LIPKE
That’s partially untrue. I grew up with a father and he guided me to be the best man that I can be and I can take care of myself and I don’t leave my family for my selfish needs. I grew up poor too but I had a father who was there Atleast. All of these families are missing a dad. That is the only common denominator
This made a grown man cry
Profound introspection! A tough but full life! Thank you for sharing your thought, I believe it is truth! 💕💕
I can see what you’re saying (I lived that life as well) but I also disagree because growing up in survival mode does not teach long-term financial responsibility. You can’t really think about tomorrow when you’re trying to survive today.
It melted my heart to know there is a McDonald’s in that smalltown that offers free lunch to kids. Never heard of that here in my city that shows the unity in community to put people over profit. 🙏🏿 the thing I love about small towns is sticking together in hard times.
Mcdonald's did it all over the US back in the spring when the pandemic shut schools down but they stopped in the summer of the pandemic. It was just meant to replace kids school lunch since they weren't at school.
💕💕
It's self-preservation. McD's wants to make sure they have desperate young people applying to work their slave wage jobs. If they die of hunger at age 10, that's not good for Ronald.
it's for marketing reasons "Cause marketing" and also to hook kids on their processed poison from a young age to insure those kids grow up hungry and sick from eating this sh1t.
They do it in my small town during the summer
Poor kid, just shows how much teachers can have a huge impact on a child's life.
I would love to see a follow-up on these families. With a section on how being in this documentary affected their lives.
That little boy (Sean, I think?) has SUCH a good head on his shoulders. He's so mature for his age (I guess he has to be), sensitive, loving, and responsible. I wish him and his family, and all the families, the best .
I know Shawn and Ed personally. I went to school with them and they’re great guys. The economy in southeastern Ohio hasn’t been good but it’s getting even worse. Basically the entire economy relies on Ohio University which is going downhill. My father was a professor at OU but we left because of job instability. I new things were bad but I never knew it was this bad. I have friends in the plains and I’m trying to do all I can to make sure they stay mentally ok.
Facts.
@John Richardson 30 percent of Americans were dirt poor pre pandemic, now its 50+ percent. Wtf are you talking about. Reporting facts makes you think there's some communist conspiracy. You have issue my dude
@John Richardson funny how you have contempt for these ppl, making you a sh*t person. Ppl like you earn the name Deplorables
@John Richardson me as a citizen cannot limit your first amendment rights. I get it, you're just and idiot. Lol buzz off deplorable
Ms. Candy is a doll, I like the way she helps the kid's with school work.
This kid is going places. What an awesome child. His mother should be so proud!
Kudos to Shawn's mom for raising such wonderful boys.
Yes. She’s raising wonderful people, even in bad circumstances. God bless them.
Those teen girls are so mature and beautiful. “Sometime life just happens.” Somber lesson for a teen.
I was thinking that too. That mom is so fortunate to have those girls as daughters. All of these kids seem so aware and mature. Hardship builds resilience.
But even if they weren’t beautiful, they still wouldn’t deserve it.
That little boy is a stand up dude, could see him as a future leader
What’s crazy is I went to high school wit the older one and I would have never know if it wasn’t for my teacher at a completely different school making us watch this for an assignment
All the absent fathers need to help support their children!!!!! These kids are precious.❤❤❤
This is during the pandemic it's safe to assume that alot of father's are in the same situation, jobless too.
Fathers who abandon their families are such cowards. The weakest of men.
To many fathers have nothing left after the evil mothers screws them over in court.
vast majority of divorces are initiated by women... women leave and break up families, and that's if they even let a man focused of building a family impregnate them.
Seeing my home town west side pantry from where I am now, I am beyond thankful for those people.
It seems to me that these children have something a lot of kids don’t have...good parents. And no amount of money can buy that... that’s priceless.
They have loving mothers. That's not enough. Children who grow up in single parent households disproportionately live in poverty, have mental health issues, do poorly academically and commit crimes. I wonder where their fathers are
@Me, Myself and I Yeah, that's a possibility. They don't seem to be particularly bright or hard working (can't tell with the lady with a Kidney Disorder). If you were born and raised in America and in your 40s and 50s are working an Entry Level Job, it's due to a lack of competence and effort, rather than the system holding you back. That's just the hard sad truth. It's a totally different case with low skilled immigrants and teenagers/young adults. In many cases it's the only option.
M. A. Muse where are the fathers?
M. A. Muse but the system is supposed to make you competent. That’s what public schooling was literally made for was to create good workers. Not bosses, but workers. I wouldn’t say it’s from a lack of effort. I live in WV and if small towns everywhere else are like the ones here, you can loose or not even get a job because of very petty reasons. Like say someone that works there doesn’t like you and they tell the boss they don’t, you’re out. Or if people gossip about you, even if they know the things aren’t true. If you’re more attractive than everyone else that works there. If your family is wealthy or just can provide a decent life, then jealously will always prevent you from getting a job. It’s not easy to just go get a job in smaller or tight knit areas. It took me 5 years to get hired at the dollar store beside my house and the reason being was that I wasn’t good friends with any managers. As soon as my friend became a manager, they had no issue hiring me and I still work there because there’s no other options. I’m actually a bartender but have had to leave every club around here because you have to sleep with the owner to keep your job or they’ll just stop paying you and start asking for a cut of your tips or treat you so horribly you have to leave. It’s not like the authorities will do anything about it, because these bars have operated this way for over 20 years. There’s a lot of reason people in impoverished communities can’t get or even find work (there’s really not that many jobs to go around, nowhere near as many jobs as there are people in need of one) and most people on the outside don’t understand. Or one person will make it out of poverty (real poverty like these people live and waaaay worse. This is a credit to the poverty I witness everyday) then look or y’all down upon those who can’t, not realizing they were extremely blessed/lucky. The system is broken. They make sure there’s two sides, and the side that sees the corruption are the evil ones who sheepish citizens will talk down upon. Not realizing they’re on the side of the same people that are oppressing them as well. If you’re not a billion/trillionaire then *you are being oppressed and you are being manipulated.* I wish everyone would hurry up and grasp this and see the world for what it is. Until then, I guess us who can see it will be stuck just screaming it until they’re blue in the face.
@@virgie4715 Public schools give you the opportunity to become competent. However, it is up to you to take full advantage of every opportunity. We all know that some kids just refuse to put in any effort in school.
The small town social issues you described occur everywhere, including big cities. Everyone has issues to deal with, some WAY more than others. Life Is Suffering (everyone suffers, no matter what). I am very compassionate to anyone struggling in life.
The Antidote to suffering is to voluntarily accept the unnecessarily heavy and unfair burdens that life entails, and to move forward in life despite that. To tell and act out the Truth which propels you forward quicker. To aim for a Goal that helps you in the present, the future, that helps your family and ultimately your community. Once you set that goal, focus on doing the best possible thing moment to moment, day after day. Once you make that a habit, the best possible outcome will occur for your particular circumstances (and no one knows what the limits of that outcome are). Compare yourself with only who you were yesterday, not what someone else is like in the present (you are completely different people with different life experiences, so it's irrational to compare).
Playing the Victim who is oppressed only hurts you. It's a cop-out from taking responsibility and ownership of your life. It's the easy way out that actually causes more suffering in your life.
Anything you do well is worth while because you make the world that much better of a place. Anything you do badly makes the world that much worse. Everything we do matters. All of our lives have meaning. The only one capable of bringing forth that meaning, that potential, is us as individuals.
I don’t get emotional, not that kinda guy. I grew up very poor. Just spent the last hour crying like a baby over this. Let me tell you, keep your head up and always moving forward. One day you’ll walk away from the hunger and into happiness.
Blessings and much love..
Yeah me too. I grew up dirt poor in East Tennessee, had coal heat and no indoor bathroom bathroom until I was a teenager. It was bleak .
If it makes you feel better.. the probability of that outcome is slim
@@teresahiggs4896 as a east Tennessean (Knoxville resident) I'm glad life got better for you!
I was lucky enough to have a good life but I’m struggling with my mental problems rn and this comment just gave me hope. Thank you so much.
My heart is breaking for Shawn. Such a good, gentle soul, and somehow preserves in difficult circumstances. I really hope for the best for that beautiful boy.
If anything, this documentary shows how the draconian reaction to COVID has negatively impacted families, especially poor families who don’t have a support system.
So we’re just not going to talk about Miss Candy? She’s a saint. There are so many wonderful people in their world.
Yes she's so sweet
God bless Ms. Candy.
Oh, yeah
I know right aww 🥰
She a wonder lady what do you think Katie brusveen?
Nothing wrong with living in a mobile home at ALL. Live below your means and SAVE your money. Don't worry about what people think about the roof over your head. Keep your home clean and be proud of it
So many people around the world would wish they could atleast live in a mobile home
You wont say this "be humble" nonsense when your head is down the garbage looking for food.
Tell this to the people living in mansions and have no idea what its like to live paycheck to paycheck on brink of starvation each day.
Because those are the people not living within their mean at the expense of their workers not being paid well, at the expense society, etc.
How can you be chubbу being poor? Only in America.
Absolutely for sure grew up in a mobile home in a very impoverished area. Wouldn't trade it for nothing. Doing really well now. Don't let your upbringing dictate you're outcome God bless
@@alterego8496 don't know why I'm wasting my time but, and that kid looking down the garbage can for food oh, you can make it out of this shit, you can push through it everybody as an opportunity to make it. I made it and I lived in a trailer in a very bad part of town. Don't be the victim. Stop being the victim
I’m not a mother. But I have always strived to advocate for the less fortunate, foster children, and the way our system works. I was in foster care growing up and now I am helping my siblings through foster care. With only help from each other, I have understood it takes a motivated community to strive more and more. Help your neighbors support each other and improve overall life provide joy and resources ❤️
When you grow up this way you're forced to grow fast it sucks...I was one of those kids... my parents worked all the time so they could have enough for bills. Living off food stamps...wearing clothes from the thrift store ...having to figure out my own homework because my parents ddnt even graduate high school. Just keep going kids you'll make it out ❤
For only being 13 years old, Shawn is an intelligent, well-spoken and bright young man. His final words in this documentary show that he will create a better life for himself. "To climb out of poverty, it's probably a really hard struggle - but, I think it is possible, and I'm going to try my best to." Shawn - with this positive mindset and this perspective on life, you will lift yourself out of poverty. You are handsome, strong, courageous, kind, hardworking and hopeful. Focus on what you want and create a plan to get there... you will succeed.
@RSS RSS it doesn't mean he can't do it. I grew up alot like this kid. I enlisted in the Army, learned a trade, saved, invested and I am doing well considering where I started. Sure, children from financially secure families have a head start but not necessarily an upper hand.
It IS possible. I am a living testimony to that. My mother struggled to raise my sister and I, we got evicted, lived in shelters, are in soup kitchens but she never gave us away or let us lose hope. With God all things are possible. This young man has the right attitude to make it, he just has to keep pushing forward.
It’s hard to succeed in life, go off to college or university when you can’t AFFORD TOO!! So the low income kids don’t/can’t get a good education to land a good paying job in life!!! THATS WHY THE RICH GET RICHER AND THE POOR STAY POOR!! If u gave ALL CHILDREN A FREE CHANGE TO GET A GOOD EDUCATION THEY COULD/WOULD SUCCEED JUST LIKE A RICH KID!!! All kids are smart if you give them a opportunity!!!! But how can they succeed in life with out given a chance at life!!! THE LAWS NEED TO CHANGE!! The world 🌎 would be in a way better place if the KIDS OF ALL OUR FUTURE HAD A CHANCE AT LIFE!! A CHANCE AT GOING OFF TO COLLEGE OR UNIVERSITY! ❤️🙏🇨🇦 Love&Prayers from Toronto Canada 🇨🇦
RSS RSS @ hello do you mean if a mother had less kids??
flatratetec @ yes this is true . I grew up poor , I was a low income single mother. But I instilled in my 3daughter YOU HAVE TO GET A GOOD EDUCATION!! THATS SOMETHING NO MAN CAN TAKE FROM YOU!!ONCE YOU GET IT!! 🙏 I am very blessed!🙏 I have 3 grown adult daughters. The eldest is a nurse, the baby is a child care provider ECE. Works in a public school. The middle daughter is a international runway model and has travelled the world at the age of 17, but she still got her education she works with special needs children and pallative care children 😢💔. They all were honour student all through high school and two made the deans list in college / university. My daughter went off to college for 2weeks got scouted to become. International runway model . I told her take a chance at life and go for it!! All her teachers from elementary and high school told her go for it!! Follow your dreams because you can always finish your degree later . AND SHE DID!! We all knew her true heart has always been special needs kids since she was 6 yrs old🙏 I told my daughters and all children I know YOU CAN BE ANYTHING YOU WANT IN LIFE!!Never take NO FOR A ANSWER!! So yes with the right help & support a child can become something in life!! And doesn’t every mother want better for their child then what they had!!?? But I have seen a lot of mothers & parents fail their own kids. I think if any child has a chance at a good education they can become anything they want in life! God bless all children. Love from mamma bear 🐻 . CANADA 🇨🇦
Being a father figure at that age is heavy. He’s a child. He shouldn’t have to be that strong.
You are right, it isn't his job to be the man of the house!
A 13 year old child should never have to step up and be a parent....that’s his sister not his child. Irresponsible of the mother tbh taking away the lil he has left of being a child.
Sadly this is the dynamic in many single parent households.
Yeah, I remember my mother telling me that I was the "man of the house" at 8 years old. Easily one of the most confusing things to hear as a boy.
@@anthonyt425 Your only job at that time was to be a child, ride your bike and play video games! LOL
All appear to be good kids and the older of the bunch are impressive, well spoken, and gaining maturity. Shawn has a clear mindset, awesome personality, and is setting goals for himself. The man of his family I wish him and his the best.
Intelligent sisters K and K with their social concerns are definitely lights moving into their futures. Very impressive kids!