WBZ Cares: St. Mary's Center Graduates Women From Education And Job Training Programs

BOSTON (CBS) - St. Mary's Center for Women and Children in Dorchester not only provides housing for young women and their children, they also provide job training for those women who otherwise might not be able to make it on their own.

Yanira Ayala is among the recent graduates from the center's Women At Work Plus program.

"I really love it," said Yanira. "I really love that I took this opportunity for Women at Work. If I didn't, I wouldn't be doing anything right now, and that's not good."

Kenzie Ramirez is another grateful graduate of St. Mary's Women at Work Program. "They are so good, they just keep pushing you and pushing you, "said Kenzie. "So I think without them no, I really wouldn't have made it."

And Gisselle Jimenez is another St. Mary's success story, and another graduate. "This program has opened so many doors for me," said Giselle, "and I just feel so great ,and so positive about what is coming next you know?

Giselle is looking toward her future. "Next I start school in September, and if it wasn't for them pushing me, I would have never enrolled in school, and (my goal is) to become a midwife.

Giselle admits that's going to be a real challenge. "Yes, but it's what I love and I know that I can do it. Now I know and feel more confident that I can do it."
Three young women, among the hundreds helped by St. Mary's Center for Women and Children, giving them the tools needed to take the next step in their lives.

To donate to St. Mary's Center for omen and Children, go to their website stmaryscenterma.org.

Related: WBZ Cares Campaign