Monroe-based maternity home a haven for mothers struggling with homelessness, paving the way for a future filled with hope

Show notes:

(0:06) Cassandra, a new mother from Arizona, describes struggling with homelessness and domestic violence while juggling the responsibilities that come with having a two-week-old daughter. A friend suggested a few maternity homes, including one out of state: Selah’s Center of Hope.

(2:49) Kara Dowler, founder and CEO of Selah’s Center of Hope, describes her vision for the Monroe, Michigan, nonprofit, which opened shortly before the pandemic in 2020.

(6:42) Dowler describes the challenges of opening a pregnancy resource center, but said God provided for the new ministry in various ways, including sending volunteers, funding and real estate when things seemed bleak.

(10:01) Dowler talks about the mission and home-like feel of Selah’s Center of Hope, including the daily schedule and resources available to provide moms with nowhere else to turn with a fresh start, financial security, and confidence.

(12:57) Since opening Selah’s Center of Hope in 2020, Dowler said the ministry has opened a second home for mothers, which helps women who’ve taken steps toward independence to remain on the right road.

(14:35) Cassandra describes the difference Selah’s Center of Hope has made. She talks about how the staff and other mothers feel like family, and how her trajectory in life has drastically changed as a result.

Reporting by Gabriella Patti; narration by Emily Mentock; script by Casey McCorry; production by Ron Pangborn

This episode of Detroit Stories is brought to you by Catholic Charities of Southeast Michigan Adult Day Care Centers – providing your loved ones with Christ-centered daycare and caregivers the break they deserve. Visit CCSEM.org for more information.

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