Toledo, OH, May 20, 2026: Mom’s House of Toledo celebrated its 33rd annual graduation ceremony on Wednesday, May 20 at 6 p.m., recognizing a group of determined parents and children who have reached significant educational and personal milestones.
For more than three decades, Mom’s House has supported low-income single parents working to complete their education while raising young children. Through free childcare, academic support, and life skills development, the organization continues to empower families to build stable, self-sufficient futures.
This year’s ceremony highlighted not only academic achievement, but also powerful stories of perseverance, including that of graduating mom and featured speaker, Taniece Temple.
Temple, a survivor of human trafficking and sexual abuse, will share her journey of overcoming adversity and reclaiming her future. After becoming a mother to her son, Royal, she enrolled in Mom’s House and began rebuilding her life through education. She earned an associate degree in paralegal studies from Stautzenberger College and is currently pursuing a dual-accelerated degree in Criminal Justice Administration and Forensic Psychology through Columbia Southern University, with plans to earn her master’s degree.
“Taniece’s story is one of extraordinary strength and determination,” said Christina Rodriguez, executive director of Mom’s House. “She represents exactly what Mom’s House is here to support — parents who refuse to let their past define their future. Every graduate we celebrate this year has shown that same commitment to creating a better life for themselves and their children.”
The 2026 graduating class includes moms, dads, and young children who have completed milestones ranging from high school diplomas and college degrees to early childhood education programs. Many graduates are continuing their education in fields such as nursing, law, and healthcare.
The 2026 Mom’s House Graduating Class includes:
Client Graduates
Hailey King, Start High School — continuing to pursue a nursing degree
Kelly Thornton, Woodward High School — continuing to pursue a nursing degree
Mom’s House Program Graduates
Bryanna Nelson — University of Toledo, bachelor’s degrees in psychology and law & social thought; continuing to pursue a career in law
Tiara Escamilla — Mom’s House program participant
Taniece Temple — Stautzenberger College, associate degree in paralegal; currently pursuing advanced degrees
Feliciana Smith — continuing education at Ross Medical College in nursing
DADS Matter Participant
Davon Baker
Early Childhood & Preschool Graduates
Jh’ley’ha Golden
Zaniah Staples — attending Reynolds Elementary
Zhi’ari Baker — attending McKinley Elementary
Royal Buchanan — Mom’s House early childhood participant
Nariah Smith — attending Horizon Science Academy
The ceremony included remarks from graduates, recognition of accomplishments, and a celebration of the families who have worked tirelessly to reach this moment.
Mom’s House of Toledo remains committed to breaking cycles of poverty through education and support — one family at a time.
About Mom’s House
Mom’s House is dedicated to breaking the cycles of poverty and welfare. We empower at-risk single parents to achieve their educational goals while equipping them with the tools and resources necessary to become effective caregivers. Mom’s House is committed to positively impacting the lives of two generations through education, fostering an environment where both parent and child can thrive.
For more information, please visit momshousetoledo.org.