A Helping Hand

I've been peripherally involved with a charity group in DC called 'Healthy Babies Project'. They are not politically motivated (and have no pro-choice or pro-life agenda), but they do focus on helping teens who are pregnant and have decided to have the baby. Their motto is "protecting tomorrow's children" and they work with the young moms-to-be to teach nutrition, pre-natal care, job skills, parenting skills, and overall life skills. The last couple of years I have 'adopted a family' through them at Christmas time and have gone to their holiday party to meet the families and hear what are very often inspirational stories. 2 years ago, a young mom- who was set to be valedictorian of her high school class, got up and talked about her life, her difficult childhood, AND the fact that she, her fiancé, and her baby were homeless! These kids overcome so much, and still succeed above and beyond expectations. (Makes me feel like a schlump for just skating by in school!)

Anyway, they send out a newsletter every month or so, and I received this yesterday. I found it beautiful and I thought I'd share. When life gets tough, remember how good we really have it! And, when people out there (eh um, Republicans) are yelling about welfare and the people abusing the system, take a second to think about how much harder someone in 'Susan's' position would have to work to even accomplish the most simple things, like graduating high school. I can't even begin to imagine... Yet, with a hand up (not a hand out), these kids overcome the seemingly insurmountable odds that life has dealt them, and make better lives for themselves and their children. They are taught that do not have to accept the culture of hopeless and poverty that they see everywhere around them. They are taught to empower themselves and stop the "cycle of despair" ... Can I get an Amen?

A SPECIAL SALUTE TO A RESILIENT TEEN MOM

A message from Regine Elie, Executive Director

A few days ago, I received an early morning phone call from a recent TPEP graduate. Susan* asked if she could use the shower at Perennial House before she goes to school each day.

Susan's phone call made me think hard, even as I headed into the shower myself before starting my day.

Many of us, me included, take running water for granted ... especially when you consider that we live in our nation's capital, a leader in the western world.

I can choose to focus on the failed system that contributed to the sad side of Susan's story. Or I can choose to focus on this young lady's amazing resiliency.

HBP Clients Develop a Remarkable Resiliency

Susan's resilience is rooted in a tenacity of spirit - a  determination to embrace all that makes life worth living, even in the face of overwhelming odds. Although Susan lacks running water and other necessities in her home, she had always appeared meticulous in her personal grooming and presentation. She is an honor roll student in her school and excels in math and science. Susan is also a caring mother to her daughter. She has become resourceful, finding creative ways to take care of herself and her responsibilities.

Susan inspires me. HBP doesn't just provide young mothers like her a place to take a shower. We equip them with a clear sense of identity, purposeful vision, and tools to press forward. What happens after that is amazing.

These young women develop a resilient strength that defies explanation. The way they're choosing to live their lives motivates me to hold fast to our vision of a better future for the next generation.   I salute them ... and I pray you join me.