Teenage parents are nothing new, but the support of teenage mothers is hope embodied. Hope for their future that they will continue an education to become independent, and grow into a strong, capable parent. Hope for their children, that they will know nothing but grace, love, and commitment.

MMS has been providing hope in abundance with our Youth Transition Houses. In Dunedin (YTH Ōtepōti) and Invercargill (YTH Waihōpai) caring and knowledgeable staff have successfully supported the transition of 16–19-year-old teenagers from homelessness to independent living.

In the last three years alone dedicated kaimahi have guided more than 144 rangatahi through our Youth Transition Houses, creating flourishing, resilient citizens. Success stories abound for both houses where these young people have been given hope through opportunities to overcome the adversities they have experienced. Their new confidence, sense of self-efficacy, increased self-esteem, and vision for their future has had a positive impact on whanau and sent ripples through the community.

A new child is “a disturbing arrival of grace” (Luke 1 46-55) that I’m sure we can agree is an adjustment at any age. Young mothers need not only the type of support offered in Youth Transition Houses which is primarily that of self-care, but, at the same time, to understand how to provide the best that they can for their new baby. This is a challenge for all parents, regardless of age or circumstance.

Although teenage pregnancies have been on the decline in New Zealand, the statistics remain high compared to other countries. The teen birth rate is particularly high amongst Māori and Pasifika teens compared with other ethnicities. Socio-economic circumstances can present significant challenges for teenage parents and teenagers who do not have awareness of, or access to, the resources that are available to them are at greater risk of negative outcomes – for them and their babies.

It is our life’s remit to “set at liberty those who are oppressed.” (Luke 4:18). Independence and security is not much to ask for any one of us and includes the last, the lost, and the least. MMS is now ready to provide a stable, safe environment to nurture young mothers and their babies, and, when in the best interests of all concerned, to support positive interactions with the babies’ fathers. Nurturing fledgling families in fact.

With our strength-based, client-led practices, MMS can prepare these teenage parents to have healthy futures. They can help these young people to develop the essential qualities that will eventually empower them to feel supported and accepted by a society that enables them to live and thrive with dignity and respect.

All of us can participate in shaping the future for these young parents who are responsible for raising our next generation. MMS will be launching a support campaign for the Young Women’s House in the coming months.

If you wish to become involved, either with prayer or support, please contact MMS.

Let us give hope.