Stories of pregnant teens helped by Community Maternity Services

by KATE BLAIN

Assistant Editor

The best evidence of CMS' success during its 25 years of service to the Albany Diocese can be measured in the stories of those whose lives the agency has changed -- for example,

* Ellen, 17, a shy, African-American teen who came to the Branson Family Development Center after Child Protective Services removed her child from her home. Ellen had been living with her grandmother after her mother began drinking, and the teen became pregnant. When her grandmother died, Ellen became depressed, causing her to leave her child alone one evening.

Through counseling, parenting education and advocacy from Branson, Ellen received her GED, became a nurse's aide, had her child returned to her, and became -- in the words of CMS -- "a happy, energetic parent."

* Desiree, a recent graduate from the College of St. Rose in Albany and the single mother of a five-year-old son. Ineligible for daycare assistance and dependent on Social Services, Desiree feared she could not finish her education -- until she found Branson Center. With day care and financial assistance, she was able to finish her degree. "I have never been so grateful for anything in my life," she wrote.

* Jean, 17, who grew up in an abusive home, and became involved in stealing, drug abuse and other illegal activities. She became pregnant and entered the Maternity Center. After the birth of her child, she moved to the Branson Center. She received support, left her abusive boyfriend, began attending Alcoholics Anonymous meetings and enrolled in college.

Today, Jean still uses the Branson program for information, support and advocacy as she plans her future.

(09-19-96) [[In-content Ad]]