New Start Helps Young Mother During Uncertain Times
Tamara White was referred to the Newark New Start Program one month before she was due to deliver her first child in November of 2012. White was 28 years old at the time and concerned about having stable housing by the time her baby arrived. She told New Start outreach workers that she feared having to live in a shelter so close to her delivery date.
With the stress of her unstable housing, coupled with family and relationship struggles, White found herself admitted to the hospital for an elevated blood pressure that was at a dangerous level for an expecting mother. New Start outreach workers assisted in following up with White during the length of her pregnancy and were able to provide her with critical assistance such as giving her a baby bag filled with bottles, blankets, clothing, and other necessities for a newborn.
Following the birth of her newborn baby girl, White made several positive steps in making changes to her new life as a mother.
After finishing the program, White was referred to Newark New Start one year later, after delivering her second daughter, Ebony Brown, in December of 2013.
After making changes to her living situation and making sure that she put her children and herself first, White was able to secure an apartment for herself and her two young daughters.
The level of support she received from her family also increased and New Start served simply as a guiding factor in ensuring White achieved her goals.
As a faithful member of New Start, White attends all events whenever possible and updates outreach workers on her successes.
White’s goals now include obtaining a job where she can work and have her children cared for during the day, and eventually return to school to further her education.