BLOOMING HEARTS

This program is a system of care that provides the support, guidance, and assistance needed by teen mothers and fathers to succeed as adults and parents. Blooming Hearts serves pregnant or parenting teens (both moms and dads) aged 13-19 in State custody and their child (or children), or teen parents with a child in State custody – including youth at risk of coming into custody, which may include youth under a court order, with a family preservation case, or DJJ involvement.

Life Coaches are the centerpiece of our program. Life Coaches are credentialed coaches with specialized training and experience in working with teen parents. Life Coaches work with the team of professionals serving teen moms and teen dads and their children as part of a System of Care. Life Coaches are able to address the challenges of working with teens in myriad settings by using a keen awareness of the challenges they face and breaking them down in an individualized manner. Blooming Hearts partners with Teen Parent Connection (TPC) with Multi-Agency Alliance for Children. Teen Parent Connection services are currently available in Metro Atlanta, North Georgia, and Middle Georgia.

• Screenings and assessments
• Parenting skills training for individuals and groups
• Job skills training and career placement
• Life skills support (financial literacy, educational support, medical/health support, building healthy relationships, etc.)
• Legal support
• Peer support and advocacy
• One-on-one attention with a life coach
• Nonjudgmental and confidential listening
• Pre-natal, parenting and child development information
• In-home visiting
• Personal goal setting
• Help with finding stable housing
• Information and referrals to appropriate agencies
• Help with applying to assistance programs
• Help with educational and employment goals
• Information on birth control, sexuality and healthy decision-making
• Children’s equipment
• Child safety tips
• Finding childcare
• General advocacy

Teen Parent Connection’s partners include: the Multi-Agency-Alliance for Children (MAAC), Georgia EmpowerMEnt, Georgia Department of Family and Children Services, Georgia Campaign for Adolescent Power and Potential; Ringer Center of Excellence, Sprout Behavioral Health, Georgia Office of Family Representation, House of Dawn, Creative Community Services, Twin Cedars Youth Services, CHRIS 180, and many more.