New Moms is such a special place to me, personally and professionally. When I began my matrescence in 2016, a first-time mother to Naomi Frances, I was stunned and terrified at this new, terrifying and beautiful challenge of raising a child. It was, and continues to be, one of the hardest things I've ever done. And I am one of the lucky ones- I have a thoughtful and caring partner who carries his weight as a parent, not one but two families in the suburbs who are always ready to pitch in, a steady job, and all the resources and privilege of a white woman. 

Can you imagine how difficult it must be to begin this life of motherhood as a single young woman, without the security of your basic needs, or the skills to get there? I can, and it brings me to tears, but also- red, hot anger. Anger at the years and decades of discrimination against women of color. Anger at the injustice of a system that doesn't support these young mothers and their bodies but in fact works against them. Anger with myself for not doing enough to stop the cycle. 

So this is where New Moms comes in. New Moms is a nonprofit that helps young families
pursue safe and stable homes, economic mobility, and whole family wellness. I began partnering with them as an organization in one of my first professional roles in 2013, setting them up with student interns. And then I got to know the wonderful people who passionately strive towards their mission, partnering with families to construct the foundation of well-being by strengthening core life skills, incorporating early childhood development supports, building pathways to and preparation for education and employment, and expanding positive social networks and access to community resources. 

I believe in New Moms. I believe in the work they do, and I believe in the mothers they support. These moms- have you met them? They're incredible. I love listening to their stories and I hope you will take a minute to listen to their stories, and support them, too. You can learn more about New Moms 2-Gen approach to their programs, and read some stories, on the website here: https://newmoms.org/our-2gen-approach/. 

Join me in supporting this incredible work!

-Kendra