Shantá came to Reason to Give eight months pregnant and in need of supplies for her new baby and the means to go back to school. She learned of Reason to Give through her mother Cynthia, who is also in the program. Shantá, 20 years old, has lived in Humboldt Park since she was a little girl. She loves the community and considers its residents part of her extended family.

Shantá and her partner, Marvin, are currently living with Shantá's parents, but they hope to be able to have a place of their own one day soon. Marvin works for a temp agency and struggles for hours and decent pay. What little income does come in goes towards preparing for the baby.

Shantá and Marvin cannot wait for their new baby to enter the world; the entire family considers this a great blessing. Shantá's first pregnancy ended prematurely, when she miscarried at five months. Although they were devastated, Shantá and Marvin decided to go to school rather than let themselves fall into a depression. Both completed their 30 week coursework in Computer Technology before becoming pregnant again. Shantá hopes after the baby is born, she can return to school to study as a veterinarian technician. Marvin would like to make his way into the automotive technician field.

Shantá and Marvin have high aspirations for their futures and their baby's future. They have asked for baby supplies, bedding, shoes, and school supplies. They are grateful for anything they receive from the Reason to Give donors.