In a recent analysis done by Hennepin County staff, it was identified that there are very few site-based beds designated to pregnant and/or parenting minor youth experiencing homelessness in Hennepin County. In a recent homeless youth count, 43% (or 192) females, ages 13-25, indicated they were pregnant or a parent and most (89%) were custodial parents. This points to the direct need for housing for minor aged pregnant and parenting youth given that youth 18+ tend to have more options for housing.

Marlene’s Place opened April 1^st, 2019 and is serving homeless pregnant and/or parenting youth ages sixteen up to twenty years old (with priority for younger youth) and their dependent children prenatally up until age three. Marlene’s Place is the only site-based program specific for minor homeless pregnant and parenting teens in Hennepin County, and only the second program in Minnesota for these youth. Marlene’s Place provides transitional housing and support for up to eighteen months.  The program includes case management and teaching parenting skills, child development, family budgeting, health, nutrition and other skills; while also working collaboratively and with the appropriate supports for youth to plan for eventual transition to independent living or other appropriate living arrangement. The maximum daily capacity for Marlene’s Place is five pregnant or parenting youth, and their dependent child up to the age of three per youth for a total of ten program participants. 

Expected outcomes for parenting youth participating in Marlene’s Place include improved permanent, supportive connections in the community, pursuit of educational goals, acquisition of independent living and parenting skills, improved health and an exit from the program into safe housing. For their dependent children, a safe and stable environment in early childhood will decrease the likelihood of abuse and prevent early exposure to Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACES), creating benefits that will last for their entire lifetime.