A Young Mother Learns Nurturing Care from her Community in Kenya

“I am no longer scared. I feel empowered and encouraged to face the world head-on and be the best mother I can be.”

At 13, Elizabeth became pregnant by an older man in her community. When he abandoned her, her parents were left to support both Elizabeth and her baby, unsure how to help her move forward. Elizabeth often argued with her mother, sometimes running away. She was judged by classmates and teachers, and eventually dropped out of school.

Her mother, Julia, turned to her church fellowship, where she was connected with Evelyne, an Early Childhood Development (ECD) community volunteer for a local Moments That Matter® (MTM) program. MTM is a partnership between Episcopal Relief & Development and community and faith-based agencies, including ADS-Nyanza, which facilitates Evelyne’s program in Kenya. It supports caregivers of children aged 0-3 through peer groups, topical classes and home visits that teach nurturing care.

When Julia reached out, Evelyne was registering households for an 18-month MTM session in the area. After hearing Elizabeth’s story, she encouraged Julia to enroll her daughter in the program.

“MTM has made a positive difference in the lives of our little girls who have had to start their journey as mothers at a very early age,” Evelyne shared. “The program allows them to express themselves, and allows ample time for them to mature, acquire new skills and adapt to their new roles. Furthermore, we provide them with focused training on sexual and reproductive health to help them with not experiencing pregnancy again before they’re ready.”

Elizabeth was initially reluctant. She stayed quiet and distant. Evelyne offered special attention, inviting her into her home and modeling the MTM methodology.

“We teach positive parenting skills to caregivers. They are a combination of providing emotional support, a safe environment, healthy food, and guiding your child with love and kindness,” Evelyne shared. “I gave Elizabeth space to express herself, counseling to help her heal, and knowledge to guide her in her new role as a mother. I’m proud of her because she didn’t give up. She grew stronger, more confident, and determined to do better for herself and her child.”

With time, Elizabeth opened up to her parents, embraced motherhood and returned to school.

Now 15, she is a confident and knowledgeable mother who shares what she’s learned with others. She advises peers on positive discipline, play and caring for young children. At home, she enjoys making toys for her son and playing with him after school.

“Play is important because it helps my baby grow and learn,” Elizabeth shared. “Playing with my child helps him develop his brain, talk better and earlier, and feel loved. It also makes us closer.”

Elizabeth graduated from MTM in November 2024, but still attends group sessions and visits Evelyne when she needs guidance. While she’s still exploring her future, she is considering becoming a teacher so she can share knowledge and be a role model for her son.

“To other young mothers out there, don’t give up,” said Elizabeth. “It might feel hard at first, but it gets easier. Accept support, believe in yourself and take one day at a time.”

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