Local Teen Parents
There are approximately 146,973 births to teen mothers (between the ages of 15-19) in America every year. Unfortunately, teen parents often struggle with their new role as a caregiver. A pregnant teenager can face social discrimination. They may often not get the support they need to complete their studies, get a job, and care for themselves and their children. During such a pivotal time in their lives, many young parents don’t know where to turn to get the help they need to raise their children and pursue their own dreams.
When it comes to teen parents, Youth For Christ’s (YFC, www.yfc.net) Parent Life ministry seeks to connect with expectant and parenting teens and their children through intentional relationships with caring adults and community partnerships. One YFC chapter, Greater Omaha YFC, is providing invaluable resources and support to young parents through mentoring programs, powerful group events, and more.
Supportiveness
“Our Parent Life ministry started in 2016, and we can already see how God is working in the lives of teen parents in our area,” said Greater Omaha YFC Parent Life Director Annette Woodhead. “After connecting with local pregnancy centers, homeless shelters, and churches, we have created a network of partners that direct pregnant teens to us so we can support and encourage them through such a trying time. It’s so challenging to be a teenager in this day and age, even in the best situation. The vast majority of the teens that we work with do not have family support. Some are homeless and lack basic needs. Many are struggling to pay the bills and provide for their children.”
Greater Omaha YFC’s Parent Life meets the needs of teen parents, both physically, emotionally, and spiritually. By providing a safe environment for teen parents to bring their children, get connected, and learn more about parenting, the ministry gives opportunities for growth and renewal, all while pointing back to Christ and the message of the Gospel.
Spiritually Bonding
“We had one pregnant teen, Shay, come to our group and connect with one of our mentors,” Woodhead said. “She really bonded with her mentor, asking tons of questions about delivery and babies which gave an opportunity to build trust. The relationship just blossomed, and Shay started bringing her boyfriend to our meetings, who quickly bonded with Shay’s mentor’s husband! It was a really special relationship. Both teenagers found God and are now married. We got to celebrate their baby’s first birthday with them recently, which was such a special moment.
“Our goal is to let every young parent that walks through our doors know that they are loved and accepted, both by us and more importantly by God.”
