From Teen Mom to Graduate: Myia's Journey of Strength and Hope with PCHAS

When Stephanie and her five children arrived at the Presbyterian Children's Homes and Services (PCHAS) campus four years ago, they were in search of safety and stability. Stephanie's 14-year-old daughter, Myia, was pregnant and uncertain about her future. Both mother and daughter faced unique challenges, including securing housing and finding support as Myia prepared to become a young mother. Little did they know that their journey with PCHAS would empower them to overcome these obstacles and transform their lives.

Stephanie found solace and strength in the PCHAS Single Parent Family program, which provided housing and a nurturing environment for her family. The program offered resources and guidance to help Stephanie and Myia adjust to their new lives. Myia, anxious about her pregnancy and future, was able to focus on her education with her mother's unwavering support and the assistance of the PCHAS team.

 "The coordinators are amazing; they are like angels here to help," Stephanie shared. Through PCHAS, Stephanie gained valuable knowledge in financial education, health and well-being, self-care, and credit improvement. These skills equipped her to support her family and herself better.

 Myia also benefited immensely from the resources PCHAS provided. With their guidance, she pursued her personal goals and discovered newfound independence. Despite facing immense pressure as a young, pregnant mother, she showed remarkable resilience.

 “Many people told me to abort my child, but I asked God to give me a sign. He gave me a dream and spoke to me through others," said Myia.

 Myia's journey wasn't easy, but with the unwavering support of her mother and the PCHAS staff, she found the strength to persevere. "I want people to know it's okay to struggle because we're all human. We all have flaws. We all make mistakes," said Myia as tears streamed down her face. "There have been many days and nights when I felt like giving up.”

 Myia defied the odds and chose to give her three-year-old son a brighter future. Myia graduated from high school in May 2024 and plans to attend Navarro Community College to pursue a career as an LVN nurse. Her goal is to help other young pregnant mothers who face similar challenges.