Parenting Teen Living
The Ruth House and The Florence House
Lutheran Social Services of New England directs two programs for single teenage mothers and their children. Both offer transitional living in a supportive environment for low income and often homeless mothers who, with the help of staff, gain the skills necessary to manage life successfully when they leave.
TEEN PARENTS find support, training, advocacy and transitional housing within two LSS Teen Parent programs. The Florence House in Worcester, Massachusetts, and the Ruth House in Brockton, Massachusetts, provide housing in safe, therapeutic residential environments that build upon individual strengths in order to help young families move toward self-sufficiency.
Serving a total of 18 families, these programs assist teenage mothers and their children by providing housing, case management and training in a structured setting that fosters the development of life skills and healthy family relationships.
These programs offer recreational activities that help to build family bonds and encourage healthy social relationships. Children receive early intervention healthcare and specialized services.
Young parents are required to achieve a high school diploma or GED.
Young Parent Support Program
The Young Parents Support Program serves families who live in the community as well as in the Florence House or Ruth House. Advocates help them to enter school and work programs, access child care, and assure that they receive the necessary healthcare, counseling and resources to provide for their children. Mothers, many of whom live at the Ruth House or Florence House with their children, and fathers participate in parenting and life skills training.
"LSS supports teen parents and their children because we believe that they are an investment in our economy, the reflection of hope, the picture of determination against odds, and the future of our society." Staff Member