Support single mothers
Mommies Matter provides community and resources to help transform the lives of pregnant, single mothers who lack support. Offering connection, community, and authentic relationships in addition to practical supports such as family and financial advocate services, counseling, one-on-one mentoring, and group support, single mother-led families are being restored and preserved. We truly believe that life is better when we do it together.
The People of Saint Paul the Apostle Parish have generously donated their time, talent, and treasure by providing many services and financial assistance that further the mission of Mommies Matter; namely "Doing Life Together" with mothers in crisis who are facing unplanned pregnancies. Some of the roles held by our St. Paul community are Allies (supportive and spiritual mentors), babysitters, cooks, baby shower hosts, event planners, Support Sisters, and many others.
Recent successes
Within the past two months, 21 volunteers and allies have served over 200 hours with Mommies Matter! Last Spring, St. Paul hosted our annual Mommies Matter Diaper and Baby Items Drive. Thanks to all those who participated — it was a huge success! In addition, many of our parishioners financially support Mommies Matter as both one-time and monthly donors. And most recently, the Marian Gift shop, many parish groups, and individuals have donated auction items for our annual Fall Fundraiser held last November.
Opportunities for families to serve together
- Babysitting at Enrichment gatherings & Mother’s Day and Thanksgiving Dinners
- Helping to serve at Mother’s Day & Thanksgiving Dinners
- Providing of meals for Enrichment gatherings & special events, including meal train for new Mommies
- Assisting with various special events
- Transporting of diapers & baby item donations from local church drives
- Transporting household goods & furniture from donors to Mommies in need
- Hosting baby showers
- Explore God Series: Mommies & volunteers delve into the online “Explore God” series which provides content that help to learn more about ourselves and our faith journey — Held every 1st Tuesday of each month (virtual)
- Enrichment Gatherings: Mommies gather with volunteers to share a meal, a Bible devotional and to hear a speaker; babysitting provided — Held on every 2nd (virtual) & 4th (in-person) Tuesdays of each month
Hosted by Mommies Matter Staff & Volunteers for the mommies and their families:
- Easter Egg Hunt with Easter Bunny: Mommies & their children gather for a meal, Easter egg hunt & photos with the Easter Bunny
- Celebration of Motherhood Mother’s Day Dinner: for Mommies; babysitting provided
- Diapers & Donuts: Mommies & their children gather at a park with volunteers for fellowship and distribution of diapers
- Annual Reunion Picnic: Families of present & “graduated” Mommies gather with past & present volunteers & their families to re-connect
- Respite Retreat: Mommies gather for a relaxing yet recharging retreat at Sharon Woods lodge
- Family Fall Fun Day: Mommies & their children are invited to enjoy hot dogs, s’mores & hayrides at Freeman Farm
- Thanksgiving Dinner (family-style): Evening of gratitude to reflect on the gift of life with Mommies, volunteers & staff; babysitting provided
- Christmas with Santa: Mommies & their children gather for a meal, caroling & photos with Santa
Get involved
Contact parishioner Daphne Suh ([email protected]) to get involved with Mommies Matter!
