A new program at the Maryland Living Center (MLC) is providing vital support to young parents experiencing homelessness. Since July 2023, the initiative has focused on helping individuals aged 16 to 21, particularly those who have aged out of the foster care system or lack family support. Young mother Becca Glennemeier, 19, is one of the participants working to establish a stable environment for herself and her two children.
Glennemeier has gained essential parenting skills and independent living abilities, such as budgeting, through the program. “It’s really helpful here,” she said, expressing gratitude for the resources provided. The MLC aims to assist its clients in building a foundation for a better future while addressing the unique challenges faced by pregnant and parenting teens.
Funding and Resources for Young Families
A recent federal grant from the Family Youth Services Bureau is enabling MLC to expand its offerings specifically for young parents. The grant, amounting to $350,000 annually for three years, has allowed the center to hire a part-time nurse and therapist to assist participants with their needs. The program also collaborates with local organizations, such as Adams County Sixpence and the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children, to connect clients with additional resources.
Jenifer Knuth, the program director at MLC, emphasized the importance of individualized case management plans for each participant. These plans cover a variety of skills aimed at fostering independence. “They can get on the right path right away when they’re pregnant,” Knuth stated, highlighting the program’s proactive approach.
For Caitlyn Stanley, 17, the transition to motherhood has not been without challenges. After moving into the facility with her nine-month-old son, Zion, she found the program beneficial in managing her new responsibilities. “It helps me realize that being an adult is not as easy as it seems, but you also get help,” she noted.
Building Independence and Breaking Cycles
While some young residents may initially resist the rules at MLC, Stanley believes they have positively influenced her focus and goals. “I really like that they check apartments every Sunday to see if they’re clean,” she shared, crediting the program with helping her maintain a tidy living space. These checks have also enabled Glennemeier to regain partial custody of her children, as she can demonstrate her cleaning and parenting skills.
Glennemeier’s journey has been shaped by her experiences in foster care, where she faced instability. She views the MLC as an opportunity to break the cycle for her children, aspiring to find a home with her fiancé and create a secure environment. RuAnn Root, executive director of the Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA), which oversees MLC, emphasized that the program aims to prevent child abuse by addressing the root causes of poverty.
Root explained, “We offer holistic services to youth that are either homeless or at risk of being homeless.” Even if participants are on a waitlist, which can vary from two to 16 weeks, MLC provides essential services, including case management, food, and clothing.
The maternity group home program also focuses on meeting the basic needs of young parents who may be unsure where to turn for help. “We’ll make sure that the basic needs of the baby are met,” Root said, underscoring the program’s commitment to supporting families in crisis.
For young mothers like Stanley, the program’s approach of offering rent based on income has eased the financial burden of independence. She expressed appreciation for the support from MLC staff, stating, “It’s a hand up, not a hand out.”
For those interested in learning more about the program or applying for assistance, they can contact MLC at 402-834-3180 or visit their website at www.marylandlivingcenter.org.
