Katrina Gilbert’s life took a turn for the worse when drugs crippled her husband and heavily impacted their financial stability. It wasn’t soon after that she found herself a divorced mother of three young children, working tirelessly to provide as best she could. When the odds seemed stacked against her, Katrina found hope at Chambliss Center for Children. The 24-hour child care program provided Katrina with safe, affordable care for her three children at a time when she needed it most. Having this resource was crucial in her ability to navigate one of the most difficult times in her life. Katrina was no longer alone in her pursuit of stability and happiness for her children. 

As some may recall, Katrina’s story of triumph and resilience was made public after the Chattanooga-based documentary, “Paycheck to Paycheck: The Life and Times of Katrina Gilbert,” aired on HBO in March 2014. Executive produced by Maria Shriver, Katrina’s story highlighted the plight of almost 42-million women like her who live in or are on the brink of poverty. This documentary touched the hearts of many around the world, as Katrina’s story was not much different from many parents who were involved with Chambliss Center for Children.

This year marks the documentary’s 10-year anniversary, and we couldn’t be happier to share where Katrina Gilbert is today. After Katrina’s story aired on HBO, she became a quick celebrity, speaking at large conferences and making appearances on TV shows around the country.  She met Oprah Winfrey, Anderson Cooper, and many other well-known figures.  After about two years of traveling and speaking, she returned to her job as a CNA at the same nursing home.  In 2015, Katrina married her boyfriend Chris, who was seen in the documentary. They were able to save up to purchase a home in 2019, where they still live with the children.  Katrina was also able to move jobs to work in a local hospital where she has increased her skills, responsibilities, and her pay! 

The children are thriving as they grow into responsible young adults.  Trent, 14 years old, enjoys playing football and baseball. He is also active in the ROTC at his school.  Lydia, 16 years old, is studying to get her driver’s license and then plans to get a part-time job.  Brooklyn, 18 years old, is a senior in high school, works part-time at a fast-food restaurant, and is planning to attend Chattanooga State Community College in the fall. She hopes to pursue a degree in the medical field. 

Katrina looks back on the past ten years and sees so much growth in herself and her family.  Things have really fallen into place for her, and she and Chris are even planning to buy another house next year to be used to generate rental income for them.  Katrina’s ex-husband has gotten clean, holds down a steady job, and is very supportive of Katrina and extremely involved in the lives of the children. She is so happy that the documentary was made as it was a help to her but also to so many people who saw it. We remain in contact with Katrina and her family and hope that all of our families can grow into the success story that she is!