Maternal & Family Programs

Catholic Charities of Southern Missouri’s Maternal and Family Programs  involve all members of the family. Our goal is to build a stronger family unit by providing services specifically designed for each member. 

A mother holds her baby twins on a couch.

We are committed to helping children and families achieve a brighter future. 

Program Description

Catholic Charities of Southern Missouri provides vital services to homeless moms-to-be, and new moms and dads, through four programs designed to support children and families: 

LifeHouse Crisis Maternity Home in Springfield opened in 2013. LifeHouse in Cape Girardeau opened its doors to residents on April 29, 2024.

LifeHouse is a residential program for pregnant women experiencing homelessness aged 18 or older. Each resident can have one child under the age of five with them. The mission of LifeHouse is to provide a safe, nurturing home and supportive services for women who have chosen life for their unborn child. LifeHouse is not just a shelter, but a comprehensive program with the goal of creating a better life for mother and child. LifeHouse provides case management, food and shelter, counseling, and so much more. 

Eligibility

  • Pregnant
  • Homeless or at risk of becoming homeless
  • Age 18 or older
  • Sober (drugs and alcohol)
  • Willing to be vaccinated during flu season
  • Willing to use licensed childcare providers
  • Participate in the LifeHouse program 
  • *We can accommodate one additional child under the age of 5
A mother looks lovingly down at her baby
A Catholic Charities case manager loads supplies into her car.

Healthy Moms, Healthy Babies

Healthy Moms, Healthy Babies is a comprehensive case management program that offers pregnancy and parenting support to expectant mothers and families. Our case managers provide pre- and post-natal education with the goal of improving pregnancy outcomes. Our clients learn new skills for a strong, self-sufficient lifestyle. This includes a better understanding of infant growth and development and improved family economic foundation.

Eligibility

  • Missouri resident with proof (driver’s license, home bill with address, etc.)
  • Pregnant and willing to carry child to term, parent child, or place for adoption
  • At or below 185% of poverty level
  • Provide proof of pregnancy

Dedicated Dads

Dedicated Dads is a program for men to focus on improving their knowledge, skills, and abilities as a parent. The program uses the “24/7 Dad” curriculum to guide participants through content and discussions around being the best father possible. Throughout this program, men will work with a trained facilitator to explore their own history and learn to adapt behaviors and characteristics to reverse trends of father absence. Topics covered include showing and handling feelings, discipline, children’s growth, and co-parenting.

Eligibility

*Must be the father of a baby or toddler in LifeHouse or Healthy Moms, Healthy Babies

A stock image of a father holding his son.