McKayla & Jason

On April 7, 2016, McKayla, 18, and Jason, 20, were married in the backyard field of the shelter, with staff among the two dozen guests. McKayla, Jason, and their 2-year-old daughter Hailee just moved into an apartment found for them by their caseworker, Brian.

We spoke to with them about their wedding:

Jason: We’ve been together four years. Met at a school dance.

McKayla: He came up and tapped me on the shoulder and said, ‘Hi, my name is Jason.’ That was so cute. He’s so cute. You’re so cute, babe.

As soon as the staff here heard we wanted to get married they jumped up and wanted to help. Stephanie [team leader] gave me her wedding dress. Ev [activities coordinator] gave me a ribbon for it. Cindy [night staff] bought the cake for us and decorated it. Zach [night staff] bought sparkling cider, because we’re not 21. Amy, my dad’s girlfriend, did my hair. We were going to have cheese and crackers, but the night before someone donated all this food to the house. It was so lucky. We went to Wal-Mart and got temporary cheap rings. But we don’t mind.

Jason: Our love is stronger than a fancy piece of metal.

McKayla: Good quote, babe. 

Photographs and story by Patrisha McLean