This past week, the 58th Session of the UN Commission on Social Development was held to focus on “Affordable housing and social protection systems for all to address homelessness”. John Greenwood, Chief Operating Officer at Homes for the Homeless (HFH), and five other panelists addressed the issue of “Single mothers’ vulnerability to homelessness and its impact on children” at a side event hosted by Make Mothers’ Matter.
The group discussed the best ways to not only ease the burden placed on single mothers, but also how to empower them and their children. Greenwood explained the particular situation of mothers experiencing homelessness within the context of NYC policies and what HFH does to support them. An example that Greenwood explored was the Celebrate Your Greatness event that was held for mothers at the Williamsbridge Family Residence. Attendees of this event were given professional makeovers, had their headshots taken for LinkedIn, and attended a workshop hosted by That Suits You where they learned tips for a successful job interview.
Greenwood also touched on the opportunities presented by HFH Summer Camps, where mothers are given the opportunity to focus on themselves as their children experience nature, athletics, and educational activities. These examples, as well as many others given by Greenwood and the other panelists, showcased several ways to support single mothers and their children.
To hear more of what these panelists had to say, including policy recommendations for governments, watch the entire event on the Make Mothers’ Matter Facebook page.
