Pregnant and Abused Teen Finds Sanctuary and a Future at Covenant House

Originally shared by Covenant House Alaska, this story allows us to step into the inspiring journey of Laila, a courageous young woman who found a new beginning at Passage House, a program for pregnant and parenting youth facing homelessness at our Anchorage site.

Enduring abuse and battling addiction, Laila’s life took a turn when she discovered Passage House when she was eight months pregnant. Through the unwavering support of mentors, Laila learned invaluable parenting skills and found the strength to leave her abusive partner. With determination and the aid of Covenant House, she embarked on a journey of self-discovery, setting her sights on a future in nursing. Laila’s story is a testament to the life-changing impact of community support.

“I was 18 when I found out about Passage House, the Covenant House program for pregnant and parenting teens who are homeless. I was about eight months pregnant with my son, whose father abused me. At the time, I was living with relatives. The city bus was my only transportation.

Part of my story includes the fact that I spent my teenage years doing drugs and drinking, just about every day. But when I found out I was pregnant, I quit. I applied to Passage House and was accepted. There, I learned about caring for a newborn. The staff was very helpful while teaching me how to parent my son. I learned a lot in our weekly groups and in our daily conversations. Everyone was very kind, encouraging, and understanding.

I had been in an abusive relationship with the baby’s father, but after four years, I finally made the decision to leave him. With the help of Covenant House, I focused all my attention on my son and myself. I got a job as a teacher at an Early Head Start program, which then enabled me to earn my Child Development Associate credential. I’m happy to report I plan to start college for nursing soon!

The Passage House staff has been there for me through all of my ups and downs. I have turned to them to share my joys and struggles, and they have always supported me. I am very grateful for them. I am here to tell you that there was a time when I wasn’t sure I was going to be able to parent my son, and if it hadn’t been for Passage House and the amazing staff, I’m not sure I would be standing here today — the mother of an amazing little boy whom I love so very, very much.

I am so impressed by the community’s love and support for Covenant House. Thank you for continuing to support our at-risk youth, and the young mothers and their children. You have no idea how much it means to all of us.

– Laila, Covenant House Alaska and Passage House graduate

Inside the Issue:

Challenges for Pregnant and Parenting Youth

Pregnant and parenting youth experiencing homelessness face a unique set of challenges that can significantly impact their lives and the lives of their children. Some of these challenges are:

Navigating education and employment
Access to healthcare and support services
Housing instability
Social stigma and isolation
Lack of parenting skills
Limited income and resources

Importance of Support

At Covenant House, we offer services for pregnant youth and young families in 13 locations across the U.S. and Latin America. These programs are designed to provide comprehensive support systems to help young people overcome these barriers and build better lives for themselves and their children.

You can make a long-lasting impact in the lives of young moms like Laila. Donate today.