Partnering to help pregnant and parenting youth and their babies.
Part of our Independent Living Program with additional supports for single mothers between the ages of 19 to 21 and their children. DCFS youth in care are eligible.
Through Project Parenthood, Cunningham staff will work with area agencies to determine young people who could benefit from parenting skills and program support in order to improve their confidence and the first year of life for their baby. The program offers these young families the stability they need to be successful.
Who is eligible?
Cunningham staff will work with caseworkers at other agencies to identify Department of Children and Family Service (DCFS) wards who are pregnant or new parents and may need additional support. Our services are offered to youth in Champaign, Dewitt, Ford, Logan, Livingston, Macon, McLean, Piatt and Vermilion counties.
What do they receive?
The young parents - mothers and fathers - receive an assessment of their baby’s health and care; in-home or community visits to assist with parenting skills; support services such as assistance getting to and from doctors visits; individual counseling; and items for their baby.
For the case worker, this means someone who can partner with you to provide additional supports for the youth and their baby during this time.
How can I get these services for a youth?
Cunningham’s Associate Director of Community Services Angie Bertauski-Pierce, is available to answer any questions and accept referrals to the Project Parenthood program. You can contact her by calling 217.337.9060 or by email at abertauski-pierce@cunninghamhome.org.
Independent Living Program Services
- Therapy Services: Accessed through community resources with the assistance of Cunningham Children’s Home staff.
- Independent Living Skills Training and Housing/Financial Assistance: Cunningham staff teach independent living skills including cooking, housekeeping, laundry, hygiene, money management, social skills, sexual education, tenancy issues and basic legal skills. Cunningham helps locate and maintain housing and may provide monthly financial assistance to assist with rent, utilities and some necessities.
- Employment and Educational Assistance: Cunningham staff help program participants locate and maintain employment. Program participants also receive educational support to help them attend college and/or receive vocational training.
- Medical, Dental, and Recreational Opportunities: Accessed through community resources with the assistance of Cunningham Children's Home staff. A Cunningham staff nurse is available to give guidance in health and safety issues.