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Description
This project is a coherent response adapted to the needs of the problem of adolescent mothers and young mothers at risk of high social exclusion. The analysis we performed indicates a chronic unmet need for services, ignorance on the part of society of girls in situations of vulnerability. The project proposes an integrated intervention at the level of 3 rural communities: Ceplenița, Mironeasa and Șcheia, from Iași County. Thus, through the development of 3 clubs in the community, a framework is created to support the activities of developing decision-making skills, problem solving and advocacy. In order to respond to the need for services, an innovative model of early intervention will be implemented, which aims to develop skills in order to reduce stigma and increase access to quality services. The intervention proposed by the project is addressed to a number of 130 adolescent mothers, young mothers and expectant mothers in rural areas, of which 20 are Roma; all of them are facing extreme poverty and social exclusion. We will conduct information workshops on women''s, family and children''s rights, consult with beneficiaries, develop and provide a model of integrated early intervention services that can be replicated in other initiatives, create local support networks and workshops. The activities will be carried out by Save the Children Iasi and Corona Foundation experts. The two organizations have experience in working with similar target groups and bring to the project good practices and lessons learned from previous projects.
Summary of project results
The project addressed the urgent issue of teenage and young mothers at high risk of social exclusion. Analysis revealed a chronic lack of services and societal neglect for vulnerable young girls, emphasizing the necessity of tailored interventions to support them.
Between February 2022 and November 2023, the project was implemented in the communities of Ceplenița, Mironeasa, and Schia. To address the needs of young mothers and reduce social exclusion, three Community Clubs were established, providing counseling, skill development, and psychotherapy services. Over the course of the project, 133 young mothers, including 11 teenagers, benefited from these services through group consultations, counseling sessions, skill-building workshops, and individual home visits. An innovative early intervention model was piloted, including home visits starting from pregnancy to build trust and address needs related to health, maternal roles, family planning, life skills, and social support. In total, 615 family visits and 278 counseling sessions were conducted across the three communities. Community Club activities were promoted through materials such as textile bags, T-shirts, leaflets, and posters, increasing visibility and accessibility. Additionally, the life stories of 10 teenage mothers were documented and published in "The Journal of a Young Mother", which was distributed to local and regional authorities to highlight the realities faced by young mothers.
The project had a significant impact provideing essential support to 133 young mothers, offering them resources to improve their lives and reduce social exclusion. Long-term, the project supports inclusion and systemic change, creating healthier, more resilient families and communities.