Transformative Support for Single Moms: A Q&A with Jeremiah Program Brooklyn
Ask any new mom what she needs, and community and tangible assistance will probably top the list, along with a shower and a good night’s sleep. For single moms experiencing poverty, finding that support can sometimes be complicated. That’s where Jeremiah Program comes in.
Originally founded in 1998 in Minneapolis, Jeremiah Program’s mission is to “disrupt the cycle of poverty for single mothers and their children, two generations at a time.” Since its inception, the organization has expand to nine cities in seven states spanning the country, from New England to the Southwest.
What does disrupting generational cycles look like for program participants? For starters, it means acknowledging how the socioeconomic barriers that single mothers may face also impact their children, then providing practical support to overcome some of these hurdles. Some mothers may need childcare or help with finding safe, affordable housing; others may long to go to college but find the process daunting. Jeremiah Program offers tailored assistance unique to each situation to help build a solid foundation for not only mothers, but their children as well. The program also emphasizes intentional community-building, which helps single moms connect and support each other.
Jeremiah Program Brooklyn began in 2017. In 2023, 280 mothers and their children participated in one or more program offerings, including career coaching sessions, summer camps, tutoring, leadership courses, and more.
I spoke with Dana Evans, program participant and mother of four, and Elizabeth Dessources, Family Services Director for the Brooklyn campus, about Jeremiah Program’s impact for MUTHA Magazine. Here’s what they had to say. – Jen Bryant
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JEN BRYANT: How long have you been involved with Jeremiah Program Brooklyn?
DANA EVANS: I first learned about the program about two years ago. When I called, they were able to connect me with resources, and I’ve been involved ever since then.
ELIZABETH DESSOURCES: As the Family Services Director at Jeremiah Program Brooklyn, I’ve had the privilege of leading our efforts to empower single mothers and their children for the past three and a half years. It’s been an incredibly rewarding experience being part of an organization that is deeply committed to disrupting generational poverty through holistic support and education.
JB: Jeremiah Program’s mission is to “disrupt generational poverty, two generations at a time.” What are the most tangible impacts of this focus for participants and their children?
ED: The impact of our mission is truly transformative. By focusing on both the mothers and their children simultaneously, we’re breaking cycles of poverty in tangible ways. Participants not only graduate with higher education degrees but also gain crucial life skills and confidence that pave the way for sustainable careers. For their children, this means improved educational outcomes and a more stable home environment, setting them up for success in the future.
DE: The program has impacted me and my children in a lot of ways. They provide assistance in looking for jobs and housing, and they offer counseling. There’s also childcare and a summer program for kids. Really, there’s nothing they’re not willing to help with. It’s awesome.
JB: How does the program contribute to a sense of community for mothers and their children?
DE: The program offers different community events like movie nights, painting classes, and a Mother’s Day program. We’re getting ready for a celebration of all the kids that have graduated, and they’re looking forward to that. They had a field trip and a nice little field day for the kids during spring break.
This year, we also went on a trip to Maryland — we could bring our kids, and the program provided childcare. We stayed in a hotel and everybody had their own room, but we could still connect. Sometimes you think your situation is unique, but then you meet another mother who’s dealing with similar issues. It’s nice to feel like there’s somebody who cares.
ED: Community is at the heart of what we do at Jeremiah Program. We foster a strong sense of belonging through our comprehensive programming and opportunities to create, build, and connect. Mothers build lasting relationships with each other, forming a network of support that extends far beyond their time in the program. Children also benefit from a nurturing environment where they can thrive socially and academically. The children build friendships as well, which is so beautiful to see.
JB: One thing that intrigued me about Jeremiah Program is the fact that it addresses generational poverty as an issue that’s bound up with social justice, not just an issue of economics. What are some ways that Jeremiah Program puts its commitment to social justice into action?
ED: At Jeremiah Program, we view poverty through a lens of social justice. This means addressing systemic barriers that perpetuate inequality, not just economic disparities. We advocate for policies that support our families, collaborate with local partners to expand access to resources, and ensure that our programming is inclusive and equitable for all participants. We understand that our moms come to us with needs far greater than what we can provide; from the inception, we work on tackling those things to ensure their success.
DE: They really are there for you. If you’re struggling with finding housing, they’ll help connect you to the right people. If you need help with childcare, they provide up to 30 hours a month where someone can watch your child while you work, or if you just need time alone. They encourage you to be in school — every semester, I have to share the classes that I’m taking and my grades.
This program gives you the best opportunities that you could ever have to help yourself and your children. They’re there if you need help, and they celebrate you and your kids. There’s no hidden agenda, it’s just about you, bettering yourself. I love it, because there aren’t a lot of programs like that.
JB: Do you have any advice for folks who might be interested in starting something similar in their own communities?
ED: I would encourage them to begin by listening to the needs of the families they aim to serve. Building strong partnerships with local organizations and leaders is essential for creating a sustainable impact. It’s also crucial to stay committed to the long-term goals of empowering families and breaking the cycle of poverty.
JB: Is there anything else you’d like to share about Jeremiah Program?
DE: Everyone’s very genuine, very kind, always willing to help with anything. This program has opened up a lot of doors for me. If I need any type of guidance, or just somebody to talk to, I can always get help. It’s really unique.
ED: Jeremiah Program Brooklyn is more than just a program; it’s a beacon of hope and opportunity for single mothers and their children. Our success stories are a testament to the power of community and determination in creating a brighter future. We are excited to continue growing and being a support to this community.
About the Author
Jen Bryant is an editor at MUTHA Magazine and a creative nonfiction reader for Mud Season Review. Her work has appeared in The Sun Magazine, Ms., BUST, Hipmama, and elsewhere. She has participated in readings and storytelling events at the Columbus Arts Fest, Wild Goose Creative, and Two Dollar Radio. Originally from the South, she currently resides in the Midwest.
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