In Galveston, Texas, a saying has become a reality for one mother who credits the city's school district with saving her life and that of her children. Mary Simms Patrick, an executive director in the Special Programs department, is the guardian angel many have come to rely on.
Patrick, a steadfast advocate for students and families, has woven herself into the fabric of this tight-knit community, providing support that extends beyond academics. For Tashona Bradford, who fled domestic violence with her children, Patrick's intervention was a beacon of hope. "She's like a second mom to me," Bradford said, her words filled with gratitude.
Galveston ISD's Special Programs department, under Patrick's guidance, tackles an array of challenges, from homelessness and hunger to foster care and truancy. The programs are mandatory in Texas schools, but for Patrick, they represent more than compliance - they symbolize a deeper commitment to her students' well-being.
Bradford's journey with Patrick began when she sought help escaping her abusive partner. The mother of four found solace in the school district's support services, from food assistance to rent and medical aid. "If we would have never opened our mouth to say anything, y'all would have never known our story," Bradford said, emphasizing that their voices had been silenced until they were heard.
This sentiment echoes Patrick's dedication to empowering families. "We figure out what the needs of the family are. We have different organizations help us with food, clothing," she explained. Her team works tirelessly to ensure students who rely on school meals continue to receive sustenance during breaks and holidays.
For 45 years, ABC13 has partnered with the Houston Food Bank during Share Your Holidays, a cause Patrick also supports. The drive collects donations that go beyond holiday season to feed families all year round. "If you're in a position to do so," Patrick notes, encouraging viewers to contribute.
As Bradford reflected on her experience, she acknowledged the power of sharing their story. For those struggling with domestic violence or other forms of oppression, it is often the act of speaking out that proves transformative.
Patrick's unwavering dedication has transformed countless lives in Galveston. Her leadership and compassion serve as a testament to the resilience of this tight-knit community, where neighbors become family and support becomes the foundation of strength.
Patrick, a steadfast advocate for students and families, has woven herself into the fabric of this tight-knit community, providing support that extends beyond academics. For Tashona Bradford, who fled domestic violence with her children, Patrick's intervention was a beacon of hope. "She's like a second mom to me," Bradford said, her words filled with gratitude.
Galveston ISD's Special Programs department, under Patrick's guidance, tackles an array of challenges, from homelessness and hunger to foster care and truancy. The programs are mandatory in Texas schools, but for Patrick, they represent more than compliance - they symbolize a deeper commitment to her students' well-being.
Bradford's journey with Patrick began when she sought help escaping her abusive partner. The mother of four found solace in the school district's support services, from food assistance to rent and medical aid. "If we would have never opened our mouth to say anything, y'all would have never known our story," Bradford said, emphasizing that their voices had been silenced until they were heard.
This sentiment echoes Patrick's dedication to empowering families. "We figure out what the needs of the family are. We have different organizations help us with food, clothing," she explained. Her team works tirelessly to ensure students who rely on school meals continue to receive sustenance during breaks and holidays.
For 45 years, ABC13 has partnered with the Houston Food Bank during Share Your Holidays, a cause Patrick also supports. The drive collects donations that go beyond holiday season to feed families all year round. "If you're in a position to do so," Patrick notes, encouraging viewers to contribute.
As Bradford reflected on her experience, she acknowledged the power of sharing their story. For those struggling with domestic violence or other forms of oppression, it is often the act of speaking out that proves transformative.
Patrick's unwavering dedication has transformed countless lives in Galveston. Her leadership and compassion serve as a testament to the resilience of this tight-knit community, where neighbors become family and support becomes the foundation of strength.
just read about Mary Simms Patrick and she's literally a lifesaver! I mean, think about it, she's not just some admin person, she's a guardian angel for students and families in need 
. The way she weaves herself into the community, providing support that goes beyond academics... she's like a superhero, but instead of a cape, she wears a heart 
. And I love how she encourages others to share their stories, it's so powerful 
. We need more people like Mary Simms Patrick in the world! 
she's a real life angel in galveston 
Mary simms patrick is literally changing lives here and i think it's time we recognize her efforts 
i wish more people were as dedicated to helping others as Mary is
. It's like, what's being done nationwide to support these kind of community heroes? Is it just a matter of each city or school district doing its own thing, or is there a federal initiative in the works to amplify their work? I mean, we're talking about folks who are essentially running mini-welfare programs out of their offices, providing food, clothing, and medical aid to families in need. It's a huge burden on these individuals, and I'm not sure it's fair that they're shouldering so much responsibility without any kind of national support system 
.
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I'm so touched by Mary Simms Patrick's story... she sounds like an absolute angel! 
! She's literally saving lives one student at a time, you know? Like, Tashona Bradford was stuck in this toxic situation with her kids, but then she got helped by Patrick and now she's thriving 
. It's crazy to think that just being heard can be so powerful for people who've been silenced for too long. And I love how Patrick is all about empowering families and making sure they have what they need 
. If more people were like her, our world would be a totally different place 
!
This mom who was saved by her city's school district is literally the ultimate unsung hero. I mean, 45 years of service and still going strong 
. It's crazy to think that just because she's in a tough spot, people assume they're all alone & gotta suffer in silence 
. But nope, this Galveston mom's got a guardian angel watching over her & her kids 
, in the form of Mary Simms Patrick! 
.
. It reminds me of the old days when community organizations used to be a bigger part of our lives. We didn't need all these programs like we do now, but sometimes I wish things went back to being more simple... less complicated 
. Anyway, it's great to see someone like Patrick making such a big difference in people's lives 
. The way she's woven herself into the community, providing support beyond academics is just amazing! 
. It's like, every voice matters and we all have a role to play in making our communities stronger 
!