‘I’ve learned how to advocate for myself:’ Mothers Find Hope and Friendship at Brigid’s Crossing

On her first evening at Brigid’s Crossing, Laneisha, 20, gently rocked her three-month old baby girl in her arms as she shared dinner with seven other mothers in the program.  

“Her name is Norah,” she shared. “It means ‘light.’” 

Over the past few months, Laneisha’s daughter has lived up to her name, bringing light and quiet moments of joy into her mom’s life despite the uncertainty they have faced, and guiding Laneisha through the uncharted waters of early motherhood. 

When Laneisha learned there was a spot open at Brigid’s Crossing, Catholic Charities Boston’s Young Parent Living Program for mothers in Lowell, through the Department of Children and Families, she said she was relieved and looked forward to the parenting support and housing search assistance that the staff offer each of its residents. Above all, she is grateful to finally be in a safe, supportive environment for her daughter. 

“This is a step in the right direction for us,” she said.  

In addition to case management, the team at Brigid’s Crossing teaches each young mother responsibility and independence. A financial literacy course, academic and career support, and life skills training sessions focusing on anything from social skills to co-parenting to food preparation and nutrition are just a few of the many resources provided at the shelter. 

“I love to learn, and I am definitely learning here,” said resident Liz, who moved into Brigid’s Crossing in July with her two children. “The classes can be helpful. We learn a lot – how to discipline our children, how to load a dishwater, how to store meat.” 

Having been separated from her own biological mother and siblings when she was just 12 years old, Liz said she is committed to doing whatever it takes to provide her children stability and safety. 

“My children changed everything. They give me my backbone and my strength,” she said. 

Liz said she has also found a strong support system among the other residents at Brigid’s Crossing. From sharing tips on parenting to going on walks and enjoying meals together, Liz said the girls have quickly formed a sense of community.  

“It’s nice not feeling alone,” she said. “This is a no-judge zone.” 

Rose Davis, Assistant Director of Brigid’s Crossing, said the staff strive to meet each resident where they are and help them align their daily schedules with their long-term goals. For some, that means resuming high school in person while their child goes to daycare; for others, that means taking online college classes, pursuing job opportunities, or enrolling in a trade school.  

One resident, Julia, just started working as a Program Advocate position at a local shelter; she says she hopes to pay it forward and find a career that allows her to help others in need.  

Another resident, Jhonna, is working toward earning her high school diploma at a local high school while her two children are in daycare. While the past year has not been easy, she said she is proud of her personal growth and all that she has learned: time management, cooking, how to care for two young children, and how to balance motherhood and school. Above all, she says, she’s found her voice: 

“I’ve learned how to advocate for myself,” said Jhonna. “I’ve learned how to express myself since being here.”  

*In respect of the sensitivity of real-life experiences shared within the story, some clients are referred to by their first or middle names only to protect their privacy.   

To find out how you can help young mothers at Brigid’s Crossing, or other clients in need, visit our Ways to Give page here.