Mater Maria, a nonprofit operated by Catholic Charities of Dallas, provides housing and guidance for mothers experiencing homelessness or housing insecurity. Meredith McPhail, director of family stability services with the agency, said a homeless mother may worry about caring for her baby or whether Child Protective Services will let her keep the child.
The organization runs two maternity homes across the street from each other in Plano, which can house up to 10 mothers. The first is a two-story home with four bedrooms, four bathrooms, a kitchen, a backyard and a chapel made from a garage. The second is smaller, with four bedrooms, two bathrooms and office space.
The program provides meals, transportation and supplies such as car seats and baby and maternity clothing. Jari Mema, chief services officer for Catholic Charities of Dallas, said the program also aims to prepare mothers to succeed on their own after they leave. The living room of each home has been turned into a classroom, where professionals offer parental education, career coaching and classes in skills such as sewing and digital literacy.