Not Alone: Mentors for Russian Teen Moms, Children

Nina's life was not easy. She grew up in an orphanage for children with special needs. At age 16 she became pregnant and entered "Teem Mom" program. In September this year, Nina gave birth to a boy Maxim. She's a good mother, she loves her baby, spends a lot of time with him. Nina is fine in sewing; she definitely has the talent in this area. She is studying in a college and wants to become a dress-designer.

At the event, organized by Kidsave to celebrate an International Children's Day, Nina met Natalia. During the preparation of salads and snacks they talked, exchanged contacts.

Natalia learned about the mentoring program from her colleague, who has been a mentor in the "Teen Mom" program for the four years. Natalia has adult son and three grandchildren. Talking to Nina she connected to her at once and wanted to support this girl. But relations were not easy, because Nina is not very open to communicate with new people. During the summer, while Nina was preparing to delivery, they communicated via internet and met several times. Natalia patiently and delicately helped Nina to get prepared for childbirth, was interested in her sewing classes, talked about her life experience and gradually Nina opened her heart for Natalia. They closely communicate now, discussing parenting issues and plans for the future.

Nina is kind, sympathetic, talented girl. The relations between mentor and mentee are becoming warmer, they are already bored without each other and do not hesitate to speak and write each other about their feelings. Natalia takes the responsibilities of a mentor very seriously, and Nina appreciates her care and support.

In total 51 young mothers and 52 babies participated in the program during 2015/2016 school year. Over 70% of young mothers have long-term mentors, who help them with parenting, social adaptation, employment.