One Teen’s Story: Young Mom Persists Through COVID to Achieve Stability : Healthy Babies Project

The COVID-19 crisis created untold challenges for HBP families. But the pandemic also motivated our young moms to pursue stability. Such was the case for Alisha,* who came to Healthy Babies Project in June 2019 – well before most of us had heard of the term “COVID-19.”

Alisha enrolled in the agency’s Summer Youth Employment Program (SYEP) with a clear purpose. She wanted to ensure a safe living situation and a secure financial future for herself and her baby. The six-week interactive summer program for District youth addresses healthy life skills and equips students to take first steps in preparing for a stable life and a career.

Alisha was referred to HBP and SYEP by the Department of Youth Rehabilitative Services because she needed a place to live. At the time, Alisha was four months’ pregnant. She had been staying with her aunt, but the home was no longer safe for her and her unborn baby. Alisha wanted stability. But prior to entering SYEP, she didn’t know how to cultivate it.

First Steps Towards Stability

During SYEP, youth are introduced to a variety of career options and are equipped with practical tools they need to enter the workplace. The program targets soft skills training including fundamentals in communication, conflict resolution, self-direction, time management, problem-solving, professional development, personal finance, and workplace etiquette.

From SYEP’s first day, Alisha embraced the opportunities provided in the program. She stepped into a leadership role and assisted with organizing information for each session. She set about to make changes in her own circumstances by updating her resume. She focused on growing her professional development skills. Alisha listened carefully during sessions about dressing professionally and speaking clearly during job interviews.

Just days after starting SYEP, Alisha was hired for a part-time job. Meanwhile, she enrolled in GED classes and attended HBP’s Teen Parent Empowerment Program sessions each week. She worked two jobs until giving birth to a healthy baby boy in November 2019. When a spot opened at Perennial House, Alisha was admitted and soon transitioned to live in Muriel House when the new facility opened in March 2020.

Continuing Steps Towards Stability During a Health Crisis

Even when the COVID-19 public health crisis limited her hours, Alisha persisted in pursuing stability. She enrolled for benefits for both herself and her son. She attended class online. Meanwhile, her case manager guided Alisha through the process of applying for permanent housing.

Alisha’s perseverance paid off when she was selected as a resident in one of the District’s permanent housing programs. Now, she and her son will live in their own apartment while Alisha continues to work, completes her education, and moves into a stable career.

SYEP had been the catalyst for Alisha’s life transformation. HBP provided support and guidance along the way. But the achievement belongs to Alisha.

“Alisha accomplished more than any other young mother-to-be in such a short time,” says HBP Youth Service Coordinator Jazmine Brazier. “Her dedication and ambition to ensure her child’s future and stability – even in the face of enormous personal and public health challenges – motivated her to stay focused and accomplish her goals.”

If you or a teen you know is pregnant and needs support, contact HBP to learn about our Teen Parent Empowerment Program.

*Name changed for confidentiality

First Steps Towards Stability

Continuing Steps Towards Stability During a Health Crisis

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