Des Moines

The Mother-Child programming includes a safe home in which to live, and many other supports such as professional counseling, coaching on parenting skills, and additional life skills that build off the relationship development, assistance in education/employment/volunteering, and medical care guidance.

Ruth Harbor’s Mother-Child program is designed as a residence program where mothers and their children live in the house. Individualized care plans are developed for each mother and her child. Full-time House Parents provide guidance and coaching. A Counselor provides mentoring. Many meals are prepared and eaten family-style, with everyone in the house contributing. Residents prepare for the future and are supported in securing employment and childcare so they can provide and care for their child.

Ruth Harbor Maternity Home is a home for young women (up to age 23) facing an unplanned pregnancy. Ruth Harbor provides a family-style home. Housing, food, and transportation are provided. Mothers are given the support needed to work and save for the future or pursue educational and career opportunities.

While at Ruth Harbor, mothers receive prenatal care and nutritional meals, as well as Christ-centered counseling and information on both parenting and adoption options. Daily lessons will provide information to help the young women prepare for their future . The education provided will include prenatal care and nutrition, childbirth, parenting, adoption, financial planning and budgeting, and building healthy relationships. The women will earn points for completing lessons that can be used to buy baby items, clothing, or household items.