Ellie Mae Cagle’s Story

Hi, my name is Ellie Mae Cagle, and I am a single mom to a seven-year-old boy. Before starting Bridges, I was living in a low-income apartment. I received food assistance, free health coverage, and help with childcare expenses. I was working a temporary position at a team-staffing agency (at Winegard), and for some months I wasn’t sure how I would pay my bills. I felt alone and didn’t believe many people genuinely cared.

Then, in 2016, I participated in the first Building Bridges class. We all started as a group of strangers who knew nothing about Bridges or its importance to our community. We began as acquaintances, then grew into friends, and now we are family. They don’t just say they care; they show it.

A few months ago, I had a seizure and was diagnosed with epilepsy. I wasn’t able to drive for six months and wasn’t sure how I would get to work. Some amazing women from Bridges offered to pick me up, take my son to daycare, and then drive me to work. This was an answer to my prayer; without them, I probably wouldn’t have a job. I never knew how much Bridges would truly impact my life.

Now, several years later, I have grown so much. I have a permanent job, and I no longer receive food assistance, health insurance, or help with childcare. I even bought my first home in 2017, all as a single mom.

To the new class, if I could offer a word of encouragement, I would say: make the most of it, keep in contact with your Getting Ahead partner, and let people in. If you need help, ask. So many people here are willing and eager to support you. They are here to walk beside you and be your cheerleader in life. I am so proud of you all and can’t wait to see where you go from here.