HOWESVILLE — A Preston County program — Help Us Get Started (H.U.G.S) — does just that.
It’s run by the Rev. Bonnie Rowan with assistance from Michele Kennedy.
The goal is to assist young, single mothers by helping them get a start in life, Kennedy said.
The project includes a home that can house up to 10 young women.
“There are a lot of single mothers out there,” Rowan said. “I’ve seen the statistics and we want to keep families together. We currently have two girls who are doing great. One is still working to complete her education.”
One of the young women, Holly Rowan recently received her bachelor’s degree with a double major in psychology and criminal law.
Holly, no relation to the reverend, said she wants to continue her education and get a doctorate.
“During my time in the H.U.G.S. House, I have gained knowledge of many different situations that life has a way of putting one in,” Holly said. “When this occurs sometimes we don’t know what to do or who to turn to. If I had to elaborate one thing, it would be that I’m never alone. Anything is possible when who I am inside is greater than anything in the world.”
“I believe the girls who come here want to change their lives,” Rev. Rowan said. “They want to make it in this program. Holly has also completed parenting classes and is into carpeting. She’s a very responsible person.”
She said the other girl who is currently at the house is going to be raising money by detailing cars for people.
“She’s excited about that.” Rev. Rowan said. “She wants to put her money in an account and learn how to budget.”
Rev. Rowan said the girls who come to the house usually come with nothing. When this happens she finds people who are willing to sponsor them. She said she works with the DHHR, the Caring Council and Drug Court along with various churches and Faith Church International.
“This is a Christian-based program,” she said. “We’d like to have a H.U.G.S. House in every county. I believe it is needed,” she said. “We don’t want to turn anyone away due to lack of room.”
H.U.G. S. recently had an open house and luncheon with more than 60 people attending.
“This is not a program for people actively into drugs and not in a program like Drug Court,” Rev. Rowan said. “Girls coming here need to verify they are drug free and are being tested. They have to keep to the rules,” she said.
Rev. Rowan said the house runs like a family with family values.
“We recently did lunch and a movie. One of the girls made buffalo dip to go with our chips. Her children will be transitioning in with her and her mother will be able to visit her soon.”
Kennedy said they are going to help her get her driver’s license.
“If she stays through the program she will be self sufficient,” Kennedy said.
“While here, I have understood what the love of caring parents truly feels like,” Rowan said. “I have learned to take care of myself without depending on unhealthy experiences. The fact that I love the person I am and know my purpose … The most important thing I’ve have been taught and learned is love.”
