Ex-welfare mom becomes first female firefighter in New Orleans program - Louisiana state Department of Social Services Project Independence - Brief Article

Jet, March 8, 1993

Kathy Wilkerson is a classic example of how individuals living in poverty can rise above their circumstances if given support.

Wilkerson, who recently became the first woman firefighter in New Orleans, is the mother of two and had been on welfare for 11 years. After five months of rigorous training, she graduated from the New Orleans Fire Department's training program and she is looking forward to a bright future.

Wilkerson's transition from dependence to self-sufficiency came through the assistance of the state's Department of Social Services Project Independence, which helps welfare recipients earn high school diplomas, arrange child care and entrance into job training programs. In the New Orleans area, Wilkerson is one of 895 women who have gone from the welfare rolls to become productive members of society.

"I did this mainly for my family's sake, to improve our income and open the way for other women," Wilkerson said.