Lived Experience - Navigating the system

Hey everyone! Beth here at the Cabell County Family Resource Network (often called the Cabell FRN). Navigating public resources can be exhausting, frustrating, and overwhelming. I know because I’ve been there. Today, I want to share my story to remind you that you’re not alone in your struggles—and to show you that with persistence, things can get better.


Getting Started with Assistance Programs
When I became pregnant in 2018, I found myself without insurance and barely making enough money to cover my basic needs. The thought of navigating these systems felt daunting, but I knew I needed help. My doctor’s office (Valley Health A Woman’s Place) gave me a proof of pregnancy form and sent me to the DHHR to apply for Medicaid. At first, the idea of proving I was pregnant to access “emergency” Medicaid seemed absurd, but I went anyway.
That trip was the beginning of my journey through what felt like an endless sea of paperwork. I filled out form after form and signed what felt like a billion pages. While I was there, I also applied for SNAP benefits, which provided me with less than $30 a month—but it was something. I also learned about WIC (Women, Infants, and Children), which became a lifeline. WIC provided nutritional food for me during pregnancy and postpartum and continued to support my son through his early years.


Overcoming the Paperwork Struggle
The biggest challenge was the sheer amount of repetitive paperwork. Each program—Medicaid, SNAP, and WIC—required its own application, even though they all asked for the same information. Later, I applied for LINK to help with childcare expenses, and, again, it was the same story: new forms, same details.
To make things more complicated, my son had been on a daycare waiting list for over six months. (Pro tip: If you’re pregnant and know you’ll need childcare, get on the waitlist as soon as possible. Most centers allow you to apply before your child is born!)
During this time, I worked in the service industry, earning just enough to keep going but nowhere near a living wage. My husband couldn’t contribute financially because of his university commitments, so I had no choice but to keep going through the tedious process of applying for every program I could.


Why It’s Worth It
I won’t sugarcoat it: navigating these systems takes patience and perseverance. It’s not ideal that we have to visit multiple offices and fill out redundant applications, but it’s the reality of the current system. Here’s the good news: once you take that first step and commit to the process, it gets easier to take the next steps.
Doing the hard, tedious work today can lead to opportunities that feel impossible right now. Whether it’s accessing childcare, putting food on the table, or getting the medical care you need, these resources are there to help you build a better future.


You’re Not Alone
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, reach out to us at the Cabell County Family Resource Network. We’re here to guide you through the process and connect you with the support you need. Remember, you’re not alone in this. Together, we can overcome the challenges and create a brighter future for you and your family.