It’s a Wednesday morning in Des Plaines, and a merry group of moms, babies and volunteer baby holders gathers in a cozy living room.
This scene is courtesy of Heather’s House, run by Aid for Women and located on the Maryville Academy campus. Named for the wife of Aid for Women founder Deacon Tom Bresler, Heather’s House opened in July with four residents, all expectant mothers in need of shelter, and their five children.
Places that offer pregnant women shelter and security are few and far between. According to the Chicago Coalition for the Homeless, in 2004, there were nearly 16,500 homeless female youth in Illinois, aged 12-21—68% of whom were pregnant. However, in 2005, there were only 212 shelter beds in the entire state for homeless youth with children—meeting only 1.8% of the overall need.
“Despite some of the difficult backgrounds our girls come from, they are very bright and are going to be wonderful, loving and independent mothers,” says Bonnie Ryan, program director.
The women come to Aid for Women through facilities in Chicago and Berwyn that offer pregnancy tests and counseling. While some may not agree with the politics (Aid for Women offers unplanned pregnancy and abortion alternatives), there is no doubt that the need for housing for pregnant women is great.
“I went for a free pregnancy test and left with guidance, hope, and help,” says Janessa Lott, 19. “One of the counselors at Aid for Women will always have a place in my heart. She became my hand to hold, my shoulder to cry on, my encourager, and my angel.”
The residents stay for two years, enough time to break the cycle of poverty and start a new life. The key is learning life skills and getting an education. Oakton Community College, just down the road from the Maryville Campus where Heather’s House is located, is the women’s school of choice. Most are studying for jobs in health care.
In addition to dorm-style rooms for residents and staff, Heather’s House has a chapel, offices, kitchen, dining room, laundry room and play room. While living in the house, mothers who aren’t high school graduates will take classes to earn their GEDs. All will go to doctor visits and take parenting and life-skills classes. Material needs are filled by the “baby boutique” filled with donated supplies such as children’s clothing, bottles, diapers and toys. Residents earn points to shop there by participating in various activities. More than anything material, the house offers residents and their babies a safe place to start life together as a family.
“Despite all the pain I’ve experienced in my short time on this earth, I’ve been blessed to overcome it all,” Lott says. “I have days when I feel as if I’m not ready for this new journey, but fear will not conquer my heart or my spirit.”
