Jeremiah Program

Last month, JP moms, alumni, kids, staff, community partners, and friends gathered in Baltimore, MD, for our fourth annual summit! Themed “The Power of Community,” the event brought together moms and alumni from all nine campuses to celebrate the JP sisterhood.

What a Time to Be Alive | July Musings I often find myself repeating the refrain, “What a time to be alive.” The past few years have birthed incredible innovation and prosperity — yet, simultaneously, a period of stark deprivation. Our JP families, like many experiencing poverty, are living a “tale of two realities.” The headlines boast about a robust economy, but the cost of everyday goods like groceries, gas, and rent is suffocatingly high for many JP moms and countless working-class families. The gasp for air is often followed by the rising costs of child care, which is increasingly more than their rent. I’ve been reflecting on the power of nuance and, more importantly, on who is afforded the benefits of being fully seen. Large brush strokes in our language and beliefs are often used for the sake of efficiency and prudence, but we must consider who and what become invisible when we generalize. Disaggregating requires more time and, in some cases, may seem inefficient, but there is profound power in nuance — in hearing and centering the voices and stories of those living the “tale of two realities.” At JP, our commitment to storytelling and narrative change isn’t altruistic; it’s necessary. We are dedicated to seeing the full scope of our families’ lives. This means recognizing the power in nuance and taking responsibility not only to amplify their significant achievements but also to champion their shape-shifting journeys — the pebbles, peaks, and pathways they navigate. I remain committed to amplifying the experiences of those closest to the issues and farthest from the mic of influence. In doing so, l am reminded that my life and existence is inextricably linked in the pursuit of justice. -CL

📣 Our latest annual report magazine is out! 📣 This year, we focused on JP's second generation: children. Learn about our Child Development Centers, our programs for kids beyond the classroom, and the perspectives of JP moms, staff, and partners — the support surrounding JP children. Read it now: https://bit.ly/3VSx2Eh

The Jeremiah Program team is taking this week to rest and recharge. We will return on Monday, July 8, ready to continue fulfilling our mission of disrupting the cycle of poverty two generations at a time. 🧡

The 2023-2024 Jeremiah Program Alumni Fellows, each many years removed from their time as JP moms, are using their experiences, expertise, and stories to advocate for other single moms and their families. This is Tiffany Meeks’ story.

This month, the 2023-2024 JP Alumni Fellows visited Washington, D.C.! They learned about the critical work of the National Women's Law Center and met with Minnesota lawmakers to discuss public policy initiatives focused on single mothers pursuing economic mobility.

Navigating work while managing child care is a challenge many parents face, but it’s even more critical for single moms. Affordable child care isn’t just a personal matter — it often determines if mothers can remain in the workforce. Investing in our child care infrastructure is an opportunity for policymakers to invest in families and our workforce and strengthen the economy.

"All moms from all walks of life came together to build this community of love for our children." JP Brooklyn mom Shatisha shares how the sisterhood of JP moms supports her in our latest blog. Read now: https://bit.ly/3z8nq0m

JP is excited to share that we've been named a 2024 Star Tribune Top 200 Workplace in Minnesota! “We prioritize being a place where JP staff can bring their spirit to work,” says JP President and CEO Chastity Lord. “JP recognizes the importance of competitive compensation, inclusive policies, and building a culture of belonging.” Learn more: https://bit.ly/3RBnv3d

To upend generational poverty, we must target all systems of influence. A mom’s investment in herself and her family is just one part. When our communities, social institutions, and governments ensure single mothers have the resources they need, communities thrive. Learn more in our Empowerment & Leadership report: https://bit.ly/4cjYYHD