About Child Abuse
"The Parenting Project", Child Abuse Prevention Center, National Child Abuse statistics 2002, shows "Over half a million U.S. teens give birth each year. 83% are poor or of low income. 80% of teen mothers live in poverty and rely on welfare. Teen mothers are 50% less likely to graduate from High School. Children of teen mothers are more than twice as likely to be victims of abuse or neglect. The daughters of teen mothers are 83% more likely to have a baby before age 18. Sons of teen mothers are almost three times more likely to land in prison. Teen child bearing is widely regarded as a root cause of our country's most difficult problems...child abuse, homelessness, physical and developmental disabilities, poverty, welfare dependency and other crimes. Most children who are nurtured and guided properly and who are disciplined positively develop a healthy identity, self-esteem, knowledge of and respect for limits, a moral code to live by, and the ability to make wise choices."
The majority of potential residents come to Safe Haven Maternity Home from abusive situations. This behavior has been modeled to them and without retraining is often the only way they know to raise their childen. Through our program, young mothers are provided with education and services which better prepare them to be responsible adults, community members, and parents. Parenting is the most important and demanding responsibility a person will ever have. Teaching the rigors and responsibilities, as well as the joys and disciplines of parenting, is a priority. Education in critical thinking, problem solving skills, and parenting gives young mothers the tools to make informed and realisitic decisions which reduces the need to hurt themselves or others. When Safe Haven yields successes, the next generation suffers less abuse, neglect, and abandonment.
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