We are excited to invite Thana Hickman-Simmons to the mic. Thana is a former teen mother and the Founder/CEO of Viola's House. The inspiration for Viola’s House is very interesting, because Thana was once a young teen mother, just like some of the mothers that Viola’s House serves every day. She was fortunate enough to have support around her that made it easier for her to raise her children, but she knew not all young mothers share this same supportive experience when faced with early motherhood. When she began reaching out to the community to support these mothers, she began what is now known as Viola’s House and the Viola’s House Baby Benefit Boutique.  

Viola's House is a Maternity Home for teen mothers who are homeless and facing an unplanned pregnancy. Thana is also the founder of the Baby Benefit Boutique. The BBB currently has over 5,000 visits a month from mothers in the community that take pregnancy and parenting classes. Mothers receive vouchers to shop in the beautiful boutique in return for taking classes. Thana has found her greatest joy in serving homeless teen mothers as they transition from homelessness to self-sufficiency. 

In this episode, we will discuss how a supportive community can have a positive impact on mothers, the effects of generational trauma that may cause young women to experience sexual trauma and/or unplanned pregnancies, and the challenges of Black-led organizations in regard to gaining the funding needed to operate.

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