wfn.org | Disciples NBA prenatal care

[DISCNEWS.parti@ecunet.org]

October 7, 1996
Disciples News Service
Christian Church (Disciples of Christ)
Contact: Clifford L. Willis
Cliff_Willis.parti@ecunet.org

96a-83
     
     ST. LOUIS (DNS) -- Housing and prenatal care for
homeless, pregnant adolescents in the St. Louis area is the
focus of a new program of the National Benevolent
Association, the social services and health ministry unit of
the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ).

     "The Olive Branch," due to open in North St. Louis in
October, has been awarded a $504,051 homeless assistance
grant from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban
Development.  The grant is part of a $2.8 million federal
grant to the Supportive Housing Program of the St. Louis
City Department of Human Services.

     The three-year grant will provide $168,017 each year
for the transitional housing phase of The Olive Branch
program.  During this phase, young mothers and their babies
will receive housing and support services for approximately
two years. 

     In order to be accepted into the program, young
pregnant women must agree to remain in school, be enrolled
in a G.E.D. program or be employed part time. They are
referred to the program by the Division of Family Services.
While living in The Olive Branch, young women will receive
comprehensive life skills training, parenting classes and
consumer education, so they will be better prepared for
family life. 

     The National Benevolent Association is a not-for-profit
organization, serving approximately 27,000 individuals
annually through 82 facilities and programs for older
adults; children, youth and families; and persons with
mental, developmental and physical disabilities.  

                          - 30 -

[[[Editors: Detailed information on The Olive Branch Program
may be obtained from Katie Burckhalter, NBA Director of
Public Relations, at 314-993-9000.]]]

DISCNEWS - inbox for Disciples News Service, Office of Communication,
Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), PO Box 1986 Indianapolis, IN 46206,
tele. (317) 635-3100, (DISCNEWS.part@ecunet.org) Wilma Shuffitt, News and
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