Portraits of the "Moms" in MOMMAS HOUSE:

My source for the project is an organization called MOMMAS House, a residency for young, single mothers aged 17-21 and their babies. They presently have two residences: one in Jericho, another in Glen Cove, (both in Long Island, NY). The project is an on-going collection of documentary portraits that I began in 1995, though four of the photos on view are from 2007.

MOMMA'S mission is to provide a home, guidance, direction and continued education that will enable young mothers who pass through their doors the opportunity to support themselves and their child throughout their lives. The mothers who dwell here come from diverse backgrounds, cultures and situations. Some have been evicted from their homes by their parents; others escape an abusive and/or dysfunctional household, others were homeless, literally living in cars, parks or surviving in temporary situations. MOMMA'S House has and still continues to make a difference for teenage mothers who have no place to go or who might otherwise be chained to a life of welfare. In their commitment to the sanctity of all human life- no matter how troubled and no matter how small- they provide young mothers an opportunity to take responsibility for their actions and choose to love, grow and learn.

A CD portfolio is available for the Press or interested editors. Please e-mail your request.

All images are © by Belenna Mesa Lauto

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