Target Population

According to the National Campaign to Prevent Teen and Unplanned Pregnancy (2014), Texas ranks number four in teen births and has the highest rate of repeat teen births in the United States. This population is also more likely to experience poverty, abuse, developmental and health issues that other populations. We are seeking funding to continue to provide services to this specialized population and their future children.

The shelter shall be comprised of expectant mothers within the age range of 12-21 who have been displaced, homeless, at-risk for homelessness, and agree to participate in the programs to reach self-sufficiency. Those who are accessed for additional services are provided referrals to community partners. Residents must agree to actively continue their education, seek training and employment opportunities and permanent housing for mother and unborn child.

Risk and Protective Factors

Several risk factors are identified within this population. Poverty, abuse, developmental and health issues are few of the risk factors. In addition, the costs to taxpayers is estimated at 1.1 billion in 2010. These costs are associated with additional community risk factors experienced by youth and their children, that will follow them into their adult lives and most likely have negative generational consequences. The National Campaign (2014) postulates that costs can include public health care, participation with child welfare, pipeline to incarceration and decreased earning and spending futures.

Viola’s House seeks to address these risk factors by providing emergency housing and supporting programs to expectant mothers. Each level of programming seeks to build capacity, skills and abilities to expectant mothers in which to pass along to their future children.

Viola’s House has served dozens of unwed mothers since its inception.