From Stability to Success A Joyful Celebration of Family Self Sufficiency - LifeSTEPS

A Joyful Celebration of Family Success and Community Support

The LifeSTEPS Family Self Sufficiency (FSS) Program proudly hosted its 9th Annual Holiday Gala on Sunday, December 21st at the Almaden Community Center in San José, California. The event brought together families community partners and local leaders to celebrate progress perseverance and the power of opportunity.

The annual gala is a hallmark event for the FSS Program recognizing the hard work and achievements of families who are actively building economic independence while maintaining housing stability. Through the collaborative partnership between LifeSTEPS and the Santa Clara County Housing Authority participants receive goal based coaching employment support and financial guidance designed to create lasting change.

A centerpiece of the evening was a special recognition and award ceremony honoring ten outstanding FSS program participants. Each individual was recognized for meaningful milestones achieved through the program with personal highlights shared that reflected determination growth and resilience. These recognitions celebrated educational advancements career progress financial savings and personal breakthroughs made throughout the year.

One particularly inspiring story shared was that of *Kathleen, whose journey illustrates the transformative impact of the FSS program. Lexington entered the program after experiencing homelessness for more than two years. After receiving a housing voucher through the Veterans Program she secured stable housing and began rebuilding her life. Although highly educated as a nurse Lexington initially chose to work as a medical coordinator at the Veterans Affairs as she regained confidence. Within a year she applied for a registered nurse position where she began earning higher wages and receiving strong performance reviews. As of September 28 2025 Lexington’s income exceeded the program eligibility limit allowing her to successfully exit the voucher program. Through FSS she built escrow savings and continues to thrive professionally with a future goal of purchasing her own home.

*Name has been changed

The celebration also included a lively cultural performance by El Grito de la Cultura Dance Group led by Elena Robbles whose presentation brought energy and joy to the room while honoring cultural expression and community pride.

Special guests included Councilmember George Casey representing San José District 10 who stopped by to greet families and thank them for their dedication and progress. Senator Dave Cortese’s representative Mariam Gallab was also in attendance. Together they presented certificates of recognition to the ten honored participants acknowledging their accomplishments and commitment to self sufficiency. There was also a surprise visit, by Santa!

In the spirit of the holiday season families received toys and gifts made possible through the generosity of Family Giving Tree San Jose Sharks Foundation Costco Wholesale and Toys for Tots, ensuring children and parents alike felt celebrated and supported.

LifeSTEPS extends heartfelt thanks to Organization of Anonymous Contributors also known as Vietnamese American Care and Golden Harvest Catering for their catering support as well as to the volunteers who helped make the event welcoming and successful.

The FSS 9th Annual Holiday Gala served as a powerful reminder that with the right support encouragement and partnership families can move beyond stability toward lasting success. The impact of the event and the strength of its partnerships were also highlighted in local media coverage celebrating family achievements and community collaboration. That article can be found here.

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