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Expert: Childbirth can lead to homelessness

Posted by | Catholic Charities Communications

Dr. David Willis, a national expert on child health and poverty, reports that sometimes the birth of a newborn can be a catastrophic tipping point for families on the verge of losing their homes. The driver of this outcome is the chasm between soaring rent and stagnant income. And the birth of a new baby is often what pulls a family over the edge.

“The most frequent cause of homelessness of young moms is the birth of a baby,” says Dr. Willis, a former Catholic Charities of Oregon board member who founded and directs Nurture Connection. “If she’s been couch surfing and then has a baby, the risk is huge.”

The Catholic Charities Family Services Program, which is in the process of recharging, could provide the needed essential support, says Rose Bak, chief program officer for the agency.

“Today is the worst of times for many in our community,” says Bak. “For those who are but one step away from life on the streets, these are days of desperation. One unplanned event such as a fire, a layoff, a rise in rent – even the birth of a baby – can have a devastating effect.”

Catholic Charities is offering affordable housing, food boxes, diapers and car seats, among other services.

“If we provide the right supports, birth and motherhood can be a good moment to build resilience for the future of the family,” says Dr. Willis. “It could be very valuable to put the focus right there.”