In our community, there are young mothers as young as 12 years old facing homelessness with nowhere to turn. Mother’s Refuge exists to make sure they never have to face that hardship alone.
Founded in 1987 and based in Independence, Missouri, Mother’s Refuge has provided shelter, safety, and comprehensive support to over 2,000 mothers and babies in the greater Kansas City area.
Their mission is powerful: to shelter and educate homeless, pregnant, and parenting young women by providing the services they need to make successful life decisions for themselves and their babies.
For our June Community Minute, Jeremy Marks recently spoke with Lexi Bowering and Shelby Carpenter to learn more about the work they’re doing and what’s coming next.
Three programs, one mission
Mother’s Refuge operates across three interconnected areas of support, each designed to meet young mothers where they are and walk with them toward stability.
Maternity Home: The heart of the organization is their maternity home, which can house up to 14 mothers and babies at a time. Young women ages 12 to 21 receive 24-hour supervision and guidance from the moment they arrive. Every resident is seen by a doctor within 48 hours, and from there receives ongoing case management, therapy, and medical care throughout and following pregnancy. Mothers and babies can remain in the maternity home for up to two years after their baby is born.
Transitional Living Program: For mothers 18 and older who are ready for the next step, Mother’s Refuge offers a transitional living program that provides a safe, secure apartment, often for the first time in a young woman’s life. Residents can stay for up to three years while learning budgeting, life skills, and parenting in a stable, supported environment.
Launch to Independence: Every resident at Mother’s Refuge works through an interactive five-step program called Launch to Independence, which builds the practical skills needed to thrive on their own. Classes cover parenting, infant care, money management, mental and physical health, and community awareness. Through their After-Care Program, former residents can always return to Mother’s Refuge for emotional support, baby items, and community.
Introducing Higher Ground
This October, Mother’s Refuge is launching an exciting new development in downtown Independence, right off the square. Called Higher Ground, the new property will feature 12 independent apartments where mothers and babies can live while continuing to receive case management, therapy, and community support. There’s a playroom, a community gathering room, and a whole lot of love waiting for the families who will call it home.
Night of Compassion
Each year, Mother’s Refuge hosts their signature fundraising event, the Night of Compassion, at Arrowhead Stadium. Last year the gala drew over 700 attendees for an evening of live and silent auctions, celebration, and community. Every dollar raised goes back into the programs that support mothers and babies across the Kansas City area. This year’s event is coming up on October 2nd and it’s not one to miss.
As Lexi said, “We’re here in the community trying to make a difference. We need your help.”
Learn more about the gala, make a donation, and get involved at www.mothersrefuge.org.