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Sophia Little Home Study - Background Document

NCJ Number
76274
Date Published
1970
Length
145 pages
Annotation
Prepared as a background document for a study committee, this paper examines trends affecting maternity home care and describes the operations of the Sophia Little Home, a residential program for unmarried mothers in Providence, R.I.
Abstract
The Sophia Little Home can provide shelter care and supportive services for a maximum of 28 girls at any one time; it has cared for 170 girls from January through December 1969. Following a brief survey of previous studies conducted by the home on its services and role in the community, the report discusses trends in assistance for unwed parents in order to determine the future directions for Sophia Little Home. On both the national and local levels, the demand for shelter services has dropped and requests for more sophisticated counseling, medical, and educational services have increased. More unwed mothers keep their babies, and they are not as aware of guilt and shame as were the unmarried mothers of previous years. Job descriptions are provided for the 19 full-time staff members. An outline of the services offered by the home includes school, counseling, health care, and recreational activities. Residents' responsibilities, visiting regulations, and admission policies are also described. Other areas covered in the report are funding sources, budgets, the board of directors, licensing criteria, the voluntary auxiliary organization, and the physical plant. The home's services are illustrated by several case studies. Other public and private agencies in Rhode Island which provide services to unwed mothers are listed. Statistical tables show client characteristics, services rendered, and case disposition for the Sophia Little Home in 1960, 1965-69, and 1970. Similar data are presented for Saint Mary's Home for Children, Catholic Social Services in Providence and Woonsocket, Children's Friend and Service, and Child Welfare Services.