QuotesWhat young mothers have to say:

“It’s like this is my place. It’s all about me and him and growing up to be a good family.”
- Former SHYM Tenant (young mom)

“I can prove myself here. By myself I mess up, but there’s no reason why I should mess up because there’s so many people and supports around me here.” - Former SHYM Tenant (young mom)

“I was pregnant and homeless and living in a shelter. I was told there was no emergency housing for women in my situation.” – Focus Group Participant, 2002

“I hate going to sleep here by myself. Every noise, I jump. I get up to look to see if someone is there. I end up sleeping on my couch with the TV on. I can’t remember the last time I slept in my bed. I hate it here.” – 19 year-old mother, living on her own, 2002

“Where I can afford to live, there are a lot of violent people…there’s no safety for the children. If there were other young mothers living around you, then you would know them and there would not be as many violent people because they would all be mothers with children.” – Focus Group Participant, 2002

“(In a housing program for young mothers) there should be support…so you’re not just there, day to day, with no plan. You need support to set goals and deal with things” – Focus Group Participant, 2002 (20 year-old mother)