OKC Program Providing Stability For Single Moms

Eleven years ago, Oklahoma Baptist Homes for Children started Children's Hope, which is a residential program for single moms and their kids.

What started as one cottage, quickly grew into seven.

“Right now we have 25 families, and about 46 children,” Program Coordinator for Children's Hope, Cathy Rangel said.

They are able to provide for mothers like Johanna and Jessica, who both have three children of their own.

“I have two older ones that live with their dad but being here I've also started the process of having a relationship with them again. And then I have my little one here, he's one,” Jessica said.

“it gives me something stable for my children… and keeps me focused on my future,” Johanna said.

Many mothers who turn to this program are trying to get out of their current circumstances.

“I was an addict for a really long time. And I struggled with that. I've been to prison for drugs. And I lost everything. And this place has you know, when I needed it, loved me and gave me the tools I need to get back on my feet,” Jessica said.

Children's Hope in Oklahoma City not only gives families a place to live, but also provides courses like money management, and parenting skills.

“People getting put back in the same situations are never going to recover. I wish there were a thousand more places like this because there are so many men and women that need help you know,” Jessica said.

“Asking for help is one of the hardest things, and just staying positive, but that's the first step,” Johanna said.

Johanna and Jessica are just two of the many success stories this program has seen.

“I have seen moms come through our program and buy homes, get wonderful jobs, leave our program and then come back and give to our program, volunteer,” Rangel said.

Since 2007, Children's Hope has been able to help more than 300 families, which has impacted more than 550 children.

The Oklahoma City campus hopes to open their eighth cottage in the next few months, once they find a family adviser.

To learn more about Children’s Hope and Oklahoma Baptist Homes for Children, click here.