The Struggles of a Single Mother

Hi, my name is Lillian, I’m a 24 year old mother of 3 kids and I’m writing to you to let you know that I had my first child at the tender age of 17. I was a high school drop out and started working at the age of 16 years old when I became pregnant with my child and had to quit my job and depend on welfare. Meanwhile, my living situation was uncomfortable because my family disapproved of me becoming a single mother at that young age. Then I had my 2nd child when I was 21 years old.

I was in a relationship and had a high school diploma, but I was living in an uncomfortable situation. By the time I became pregnant with my 3rd child I had my own place and a job, but had to leave it due to a difficult pregnancy. After moving back to Boston I became homeless. Right now, I’m living in a shelter, but at least I live on my own and not at my mom’s house.

Right now, I’m not in the best situation, but I know that it will get better and I will be able to own my own home, own a business, and have a happy, healthy family. My advice to you is to be the best you can be, love your children, finish your education, and become successful. Even though you might get discouraged at times, don’t let anyone tell you that you can’t accomplish your life goals.

I think what would have helped me when I became a teen parent would have been a counseling and education program that helps teenage mothers know that even though they made a mistake, it doesn't mean that they committed a crime and that there is always a solution to any issue no matter how small or big it is. I think that if there was more programs available to help teenage mothers, there will be less children being abandoned or worse.

--Lillian