GA \-\~OO. p~ /'11\ \"1"1"\ !"Iv, ~.. Resource Morhers is a statewide program implemented by local non-profit organizations which recruit and train volunteers to help [eenage morhcrs and their children. In turn, the volunteer Resource Mothers gain training and experience that can help them move to paid employment. .. Reduce infant mortality Resource Mothers help teenage mothers have healthy babies by helping them to get early prenatal care and take good care of themselves during pregnancy, learn parent- ing skills, and use preventive care. .. Preventschooldropoua Resource Mothers help pregnant teenagers stay in school. They provide support and encouragement to counter feelings ofhclplcssllcss and isolation. They help young mothers set goals for the future and become productive and self-sufficient. .. Prevent second unintended pregnancies Resource Mothers help a teenage mother build self-esteem and use family planning services [Q postpone her next pregnancy until she is ready. 'E TRAIN WORKERS AND LEADERS Resource Mothers are selected for their personal strengths, experience, and knowledge of their community. They are motivated to create change in their communities. The Resource Mothers are trained by certified healch educators in subjects ranging from prenatal care through child growth and development. They acquire marketable skills, so that many become employed by the private sector as a result of working with the program. Resource Mothers: >- identify pregnant and pareming teen mothers in need; >- encourage young mothets to take care of themselves during pregnancy and help them through labor and delivery; >- guide the young mothers through the maze of healch and social services they need to get a good Start for their families; and >- promote self~esteem and strong families by teaching positive pareming skills and preventive health care. WHAT WE ACCOMPLISHED Since 1996, Resource Momers have helped over 2.000 young teenage moth ers become more sdfsuffi dem and build healthy families. Community, religious. business or public health organizations can apply [Q the Division of Public Health, Women's Health Section (404) 657-3143 fot funds to establish and administer Resoura: Mom- ers programs. Volunteers 3l"(: trained as Resource Mothers. Com- I munities may contribute local funds to pay salaries for I these volunteers. I I RESOURCE MOTHERS RQGRAM