Maternity homes are misunderstood and often maligned. Sadly, many homes in the 50s and 60s mistreated young women facing an unexpected pregnancy. The homes forced women to give away their babies, and many women were left scarred and broken.
But just as the rules for adoption have changed, so has the mission for today’s maternity homes. A maternity home now provides a woman with the care and support needed to determine her next steps.
However, misconceptions still exist. The Hope Clinic wants to dispel those myths and provide the truth. Learn more about Margie’s Place, A House of Hope.
1. Maternity Homes Are Like Institutions
Maternity homes are not institutions where someone is forcibly admitted. A woman enters a maternity home of her own free will.
Each resident at Margie’s Place establishes their own path. Whether completing her schooling, getting her GED, or seeking part-time work, every woman develops a plan to meet her personal goals.
No one forces anyone to remain at Margie’s Place, but each resident must agree to abide by our program rules and guidelines to stay in the home.
2. Residents Are Isolated
Maternity homes encourage community engagement. Margie’s Place functions much like a family. Women have daily responsibilities, but also venture out for school or jobs.
Each woman participates in our program, which teaches parenting, relational, and life skills. While in the home, residents develop friendships. Responsibilities build personal growth, and a sense of community aids emotional well-being.
3. Women Cannot Keep Their Babies
It’s true that in previous decades, maternity homes required women to release their babies for adoption. Social beliefs in the 50s and 60s demanded that an unwed mother give her baby up, but that’s not true today.
At Margie’s Place, our home provides three suites that can accommodate up to three women and their babies at a time. Residents can live in our house until their child turns one year old. By then, a mother has established a plan for her next steps.
4. Maternity Homes Cost Money
Margie’s Place provides a wonderful home, food, education, and support all free of charge. Individuals, churches, and businesses in our community who care about moms and babies provide the generous donations needed.
Are You Interested in Learning More About Margie’s Place?
Margie’s Place is a safe, stable, and nurturing environment for women facing unexpected pregnancies or with newborns. If you want more information or wish to learn about the qualifications for becoming a resident, please contact us to schedule an appointment.
We provide a house of hope. Will you be our next resident?