By Marjorie White
In 2015, Northwest Houston Congregation moved into a new building on Grant Road in Houston, Texas, USA, across the street from Cy-Creek High School. The congregation chose this property partly because it was close to the school.
The congregation hoped to find a worthwhile ministry to offer students. A school representative said no one ever had made such an offer.
Officials suggested helping teen mothers and their babies. We organized the Teen Moms and Babies program to keep young mothers in school. Many obstacles arise for these young mothers, and the congregation offers to help. Many of the moms have little support at home and have financial needs. The moms attend school while their babies are with paid staff in the school’s nursery, but the school does not have a budget to furnish many other needs of the babies.
Church members thought this would be a perfect outreach project. The congregation has many teachers and former teachers, which heightens awareness of the students’ needs. Church members understand the value of keeping students in school.
The congregation hoped to find a worthwhile ministry to offer students. A school representative said no one ever had made such an offer.
Coastal Bend USA Mission Center has grants available for congregations that have programs centered on the Enduring Principles. The church has applied for grants each year since 2015, requesting support for Teen Moms and Babies. The mission center has provided grant money every year.
Throughout the school-calendar year, the school’s nursery director gives the congregation a list of items needed. Needs vary each semester, but the church has been able to provide everything the babies need—baby food, snacks, bottles, clothing, shoes, coats, strollers, high chairs, booster seats, walkers, car seats, swings and more.
Additionally, the congregation provides toys for the babies at Christmas and gifts for the moms. This year, the congregation held a diaper drive for the babies.
Northwest Houston is motivated by the Enduring Principles. The desire is to be involved in the lives of those in our community and bring the love of Christ into their lives. Worth of All Persons inspires help for moms and their babies, as does Abolish Poverty, End Suffering.