The African proverb asserts that “It takes a village to raise a child”;

Nehemiah Ministries, Inc. agrees.  We believe that for single moms, raising children in a community environment is not only easier but it benefits their family and other families. Young mothers and their children risk homelessness as teen living programs aren’t able to serve women once they reach age 20. This leaves women trying to juggle school, work, and children-all while searching for affordable housing. The Village will provide permanent affordable housing and a community, family environment for young mothers.

 

Once a family becomes part of The Village, mothers will pursue life skills training, money management, counseling and group conversations, conflict resolution, family nutrition, educational advancement and employment. As the women work in the context of community, their life and interpersonal skills will develop, as well as their confidence, and new friendships will be formed.

 

Currently, the Village consists of 4 apartments, 3 for mothers and children and 1 for mentors who will provide on-site support. Families are encouraged to eat meals together each night with mothers and mentors rotating the cooking duties. Childcare is provided for the cook! Moms are encouraged to share the cleaning of common areas in the house. Some other ways community is built at The Village are “family dinners” where one mother cooks dinner while the other moms watch the children. After dinner, everyone gathers for a “bedtime story” read by one of the mothers. Time for homework is prioritized.

 

The role of the mentors is similar to that of a preparatory school house parent and a close neighbor. The mentors or “strategic neighbors” will assist in community dinners, occasional child care, educational advancement, obtaining DTA benefits in addition to being a listening ear to mothers and children as they go through daily life.  Mentors will also work to establish a culture of honesty, hard work, trust, safety and a sense of family within the Village.

 

Moms will create a budget upon arrival at The Village. 30% of the mother’s income will go towards rent.  The Village also provides a van for use by the residents in order to become familiar with vehicle maintenance and budgeting for transportation. By sharing a van, the women are more flexible when scheduling medical appointments, job interviews and shopping trips.