A recent survey during the COVID pandemic found “Millennial mothers are nearly three times more likely than Millennial fathers to report being unable to work due to a school or child care closure.” (Americanprogress.org) In other words, women still shoulder a large share of the household and child care needs of their families. In fact, of the 11 million single-parent families in the U.S., 80% are headed by women.

What does all this mean? It means even before the pandemic, moms were under tremendous pressure. Throughout the pandemic, moms have handled a full spectrum of increased pressures, and as we move into new normals, those pressures are not likely to lessen. 

For moms who carry the pressures alone, there is Hope.

D never expected to be sleeping in her car with her kids, but after a series of events during COVID, she packed up the car and parked it in the desert. When she sought medical treatment for health concerns, D’s children were brought under DCS care. D had nowhere to go until someone referred her to Hope Women’s Center. 

Months of trauma and the loss of her children had D in a panic, but a shower and warm meal helped to restore a small bit of calm within D. She met with a mentor and began taking the classes that would help her work toward reunification with her children. After a few weeks, D’s transformation is already noticeable. She is hopeful, strong, and determined – a mom willing to do all she can to bring her children home. She’s interviewing for jobs and looking for a place to live. D recently said, “I am so thankful for all you do and for all your support! You truly want to help people here!”

There’s much to learn in upheaval. The past six months have been a most unconventional teacher, and the lessons learned have impacted each of us – and all of us. Hope Women’s Center has long understood the importance of supporting moms emotionally, physically, and spiritually. With the additional pressures facing women and moms today, Hope is adding programs that will support the mental health and job training needs of the women we serve.  We want to continue multiplying Hope in any way we can so that we can engage, encourage, and equip women in crisis for many years to come.

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