79. Empower U: Teaching Real-Life Skills to Empower Real-Life Moms

In this episode, we’re excited to introduce Jen Zwick, the Family Support Specialist in the Single Moms Program at Hope Bridge. Jen shares her heart for walking alongside single mothers and highlights some of the challenges these families often face. 

Did you know that 1 in 4 children under the age of 18 are raised by a single mother? That’s about 13 million children growing up without a father. In Ohio, nearly two-thirds of all children living in poverty are in single-mother or grandmother-led households. Poverty is often misunderstood as neglect due to issues like poor housing conditions or food insecurity, which can lead to increased involvement from child welfare systems. At Hope Bridge, we believe in stepping in before that happens—offering stable housing, supportive services, and practical help to moms facing crisis in our communities.

Through our residential program, single moms (ages 18 and older) live in a safe, supportive home with their children for 9–12 months while working toward personal goals. We provide mentorship, help with education, budgeting, life skills, and healthy meal planning. Moms are also encouraged to connect with local churches and build community support. It’s all about creating stability and equipping moms to thrive.

We’ve also launched Empower U, a new skill-focused support group for single moms that meets on the fourth Tuesday of each month at the Compassion Center. This is a space where moms can continue learning and growing with the support of others. We are currently looking for volunteers to get involved by teaching skills, providing meals, or helping with childcare. If you’re interested, check out the links below  to learn more and sign up. 

Together, we can be the village that makes a difference in the lives of single moms and their children.

Episode Highlights: 

• Meet Jen Zwick, our Family Support Specialist in our Single Moms Program 
• Single Mom’s Program at Hope Bridge 
• What is Empower U?
• Volunteer to help out at Empower U

Find More on Hope Bridge:

• RSVP to attend Empower U!
• Volunteer for Childcare at Empower U 
• Schedule a time to chat with  Mel
• Learn more about our Single Moms Program! 
• Provide a Meal for Single Moms in Akron
• Provide a Meal for Single Moms in Louisville 
• Fill out our Volunteer Form!
• Single Mom Connection Form
• Partner with us Financially
• Visit Our Website 
• Follow us on Instagram
• Follow us on Facebook 
• Foster Our Community Instagram 

This show has been produced by Adkins Media Co.

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