HOUSING PROGRAM

Women must be 18 or older. They must be working, in school, and/or enrolled in a certificate/training program for a minimum of 20 hours a week. Women in the program are required to contribute 30% of their income each month to a savings program.

Due to the limited space in the homes, we accept applications for pregnant women only.

We provide a safe space for women and children to live, play, and sleep. Our staff live alongside families to create a community, because life-changing moments don’t always happen by appointment—encouragement, laughter, and problem-solving may take place across the kitchen counter. Our homes also provide natural opportunities for mothers to encourage and support each other.

We provide education and tools during pregnancy and the first years of parenting. Our onsite nurse and midwife is available to answer questions and speak directly with mothers throughout pregnancy, and staff provide transportation to and attendance (if desired) at prenatal appointments and help women navigate decisions around their birth experience. We believe in rest, self-care, and play for moms and children as part of a trauma-informed approach. Our staff have been trained on topics around pregnancy and postpartum support, and we encourage families to connect with doula services, evidence-based home visitors, Early Childhood and Family Education, WIC, and other two-generational programs. We also take families on semi-annual retreats to create memories and cultivate a healthy bond between mother and child during a time of transition. Identifying and healing the effects of trauma or crisis is part of long-term family stability.

Each woman in our program sets long-term goals for herself and her family. House staff meet weekly with each woman to inform her of resources, make referrals, or develop life skills to help her achieve her goals. Each home shares a meal once a week and holds a discussion or class to develop life skills like communication, financial literacy, nutrition and cooking, and more. On-site computers and information on 150+ programs means mothers can work towards their future without having to arrange transportation or childcare.

For single mothers, consistency makes stability possible. One event—sickness, lost work hours, a car break-down—can lead to a crisis. ESTHER Homes’ staff come alongside families by offering crisis childcare and transportation assistance to employment, prenatal care, therapy, and appointments. Transitional services create a stable environment where women can set and work towards long-term goals.

Each resident is required to save 30% of their total monthly income, and will receive a receipt for personal records to track her savings to put towards long-term goals like a security deposit, a reliable vehicle, and more. Mothers also develop budgeting skills, plan for monthly payments, and have the support of ESTHER in speaking to future landlords. The savings program is designed to support each mother—this is not a rent payment, and the full amount is returned to each resident upon transitioning out of the home.