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Author: Kristiana Ringer

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blog
April 7, 2025

We are honored to share the powerful story of a former Crittenton Maternity Program client, told in her own words. At just 16 years old, she found herself pregnant and without the guidance she needed, until she walked through our doors. Now pursuing a degree in Social Work, she recently reconnected with us and shared an essay she wrote, A Journey of Hope: My Time at the Maternity Home. Her story is a testament to the importance of safe, supportive spaces for Black mothers—where they are not just heard but uplifted, not just cared for but empowered. 

As we reflect on Black Maternal Health Week, may her journey remind us why spaces like Crittenton matter. 

“When I look back at my experience of becoming a mom, it was both terrifying and life changing. With limited support from my immediate surroundings, I was glad to have found Crittenton. This residential facility was meant to support pregnant individuals, offering housing, maternity support, and educational programs for young women and families who need a safe environment during their pregnancy. This was not just any home, though; this was a place where I was met with love as well as acceptance. Their guidance and opportunity here made me capable of becoming a mom. Little did I know that this place would leave a remarkable journey of growth to become a new mom at such an early age. 

From the moment I walked into Crittenton, I remember being greeted with warmth. The staff here were nice and polite in welcoming me. Here I was, 16 years old, young with no guidance, and going into a new place while pregnant was very scary for me, so having the staff who made things easier for me gave me a sense of hope. I learned to trust myself and my abilities, and I realized I wasn’t alone on this journey. I started by going over the rules and policies after my introduction. After this, I was able to take a tour of the facility. I can remember the noises of baby cries and laughter. Each room was designed so that new moms could have their own space for privacy. I had my room which became my sanctuary. My space was nice and clean, and I received toiletries, linens, and things I needed to have comfort. 

The environment played a huge part in my finding empowerment to become a new mom. They aided with doctor’s appointments. I had a case worker who helped me navigate resources, like making sure me and my expecting child had the things we needed. They offered many educational programs for women who lived here, so I was able to still go to school and get my education. They also had programs inside the facility that were meant to be used to foster independence. For example, there was a baby boutique we could shop at that featured things like car seats and strollers that were essential to becoming a mom. To shop at this boutique, we had certain goals we could complete like attending school and completing chores. Upon completion of the task, I could shop in the baby boutique for things I needed. I treated my bucks like real money. I was able to go shopping for things my son needed. I gained a lot of responsibility knowing that I was ultimately learning how to provide something for my child. So, when I left this home and went back into the real world, I was more confident as a young mother because of those experiences.  

Another aspect of this program was the emotional support. I connected with other young mothers who went through similar experiences. The community here was strong. We shared our struggles, fears, hopes and dreams. Our late-night conversations often turned into thoughts about what motherhood would mean for us someday. There was comfort in knowing that I wasn’t alone. Those positive engagements made me feel accepted and finally a part of something in life. Being a teen mom, I already felt at risk so much that having positive support and people to relate to was something that made me feel better about my situation.  

As the days turned into weeks, I began to feel more confident and empowered. The maternity home nurtured my growth and development. Because of my experience there, I now understand the importance of having a supportive and nurturing environment when going through challenging times. This home not only provided me with a roof over my head, but it helped me to gain a sense of independence. I received help with necessities and educational support which has helped me understand the responsibility of what it’s like to become a new mom. It also gave me a sense of community and I learned a lot about what resources to use for personal growth. Looking back, I am glad that I had an opportunity to complete this program. I am now a mother of four children whom I love and care for full-time. I take my role seriously and I am more confident with myself. “

 

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blog
February 10, 2025

Honoring Black History Month: Celebrating Strength, Resilience and Legacy

Black history is a testament of strength, innovation, and perseverance. At Crittenton, we recognize that history isn’t just something to reflect — it’s being made every day by the incredible women and families we serve. This Black History Month, we celebrate the power of Black women who continue to overcome challenges, break barriers, and create new legacies for future generations. 

Championing Equity in Maternal Health & Economic Opportunity

Black women are at the heart of progress, yet systemic barriers continue to create disparities in healthcare, housing, and economic opportunities. At Crittenton, where last fiscal year 57% of the women we served identified as Black, we are committed to ensuring every mother and child has access to the resources, care, and opportunities they deserve. 

  • 100% of our clients receive safe and stable housing, recognizing that a secure home is the foundation for a strong future.
  • 100% of our clients receive access to prenatal and healthcare services, ensuring that both they and their babies thrive.
  • 100% of all babies born in our program last year were born healthy, a testament to the power of community support and access to quality care.
  • Our wraparound services prevent homelessness, trauma, and systemic disparities, reinforcing the belief that every woman deserves the tools to build the life she envisions.

A Year-Round Commitment to Uplifting Black Women & Families

Black History Month is a time for celebration, and our commitment to honoring Black women and families extends far beyond February. Through housing support, healthcare access, education, and economic empowerment, we continue to stand alongside women as they create change in their own lives and communities.

How You Can Support This Work

Empowering Black women is not just a moment — it’s a movement. Here’s how you can be part of it:

Donate

Your support provides critical resources to women and families in need.

Volunteer

Be part of the change by sharing your time and skills.

Together, we can continue to celebrate and uplift Black women – not just in February, but every single day.

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Stories
February 6, 2025

“Growing up was tough for me. I lost my mom to cancer when I was very young, and not having her in my life made it hard to understand who I was. 

I was placed with relatives as a child, but unfortunately, those environments were abusive. My father’s violent behavior led to me being placed into foster care, where I remained for most of my childhood. Despite the trauma, I always viewed my struggles through a positive lens, knowing I wanted to give my children the love I never received.

As an adult, I found myself in an abusive relationship. After experiencing mental, emotional, and physical abuse, I knew I had to leave for the sake of myself and my unborn child. That’s when I found a supportive space at Crittenton’s Maternity Program, where I was able to escape the stress and fear of my previous situation. The safe environment gave me the chance to focus on my health and future.

My time at Crittenton helped me realize that taking care of myself was essential—not just for me, but for my children. Through therapy, I understood how important it is to be the parent I always needed. I stopped being burdened by my past and began planning for a future where I could provide stability and security for my kids.

Now, my goals are clear: break the cycle of trauma, create a loving environment for my children, and be the strong, independent parent I’ve always wanted to be. I want to show them that no matter what challenges come their way, they are capable of overcoming them.

One of my biggest achievements has been learning to speak up and advocate for myself. I was once shy and kept everything inside, but therapy helped me find my voice. I also focused on my education and career, and with the support I received at Crittenton, I am now on track to become a nurse and create a better life for my family.

With the right support, I’ve been able to heal and build a brighter future for myself and my children.”

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blog, Stories
November 13, 2024

 “I was in the middle of my senior year of high school when I found out I was pregnant. A month before finding out, my family and I had just been evicted from our home and were staying in a hotel.  The day I took the pregnancy test, I could only think of myself as a failure. I thought that I wasn’t going to be able to receive my diploma and that my life was over completely. 

I stuck by the phrase “Move with faith, not by sight”.  After researching and looking up resources for days, I found Crittenton on google. And from there it’s like God worked through Crittenton to provide for me and my baby.  I didn’t have to worry about sleeping on the floor any more at the hotel or going to bed hungry. Crittenton provided me with food and support.   

My case manager at the time would encourage me on the days I felt down. It motivated me to keep going with school. On June 14th this year, I was able to catch the train back to Raleigh and I graduated from high school and received my diploma. After graduating high school, I applied for jobs and started working and saved up my money. From there, I knew I could accomplish anything I put my mind to. 

Thanks to Crittenton I was able to attend childbirth & parenting classes so I could prepare myself for labor & motherhood.  Thank you to Crittenton’s chef, she even took the time out of her day to teach myself and the other girls on maternity hall how to make your own baby food. She even taught me 1 on 1 how to prepare a meal for a 6 month old baby. The days that I felt like giving up and quitting, my case managers would always tell me “You got this! It’s going to be okay”. Thanks to their support I kept pushing myself to go to work every day and save money.  

Here I am here 9 months pregnant feeling really blessed! Without faith in God & Crittenton’s support, I don’t know where I would be right now. 

Thank you so much for supporting me, Crittenton!”