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After a childhood spent moving in and out of shelters, Ana Duarte was determined to break the cycle

With persistence and faith, she earned a college degree and now works to support others facing poverty

The most meaningful part of her journey has been creating a stable home that she and her mother can share

Throughout her childhood, Ana Duarte moved in and out of shelters, often unsure where she and her mother, Annette Duarte, would sleep next.

“I grew up in constant instability,” Ana, 25, tells PEOPLE. “Never really settled, always moving from one place to another, renting rooms when we could afford it.”

Yet through every uncertain night and every upheaval, her mother remained her steady force. “She’s truly been my rock — doing everything she could despite limited oppor

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