It’s a Thursday morning at Malta House, and the residents have just emerged from “Morning Motivation” in the community room with Case Managers Juakia and Tomeka. Next, they are looking forward to a financial literacy class later in the morning.

These meetings and classes are part of daily life at Malta House and are designed to help residents build the skills, confidence, and resources needed for long-term independence, explains Program Director Ruth Menard.

“We provide our mothers and babies with shelter and safety, but we are also focused on helping our residents achieve independence,” she says. “When women come to Malta House, many are facing housing instability and significant life challenges. When they leave Malta House—we describe it as ‘graduating’—our goal is for them to have gained life, parenting, and employment skills so they can provide a safe, nurturing home environment for their children.”

When a woman becomes a resident of Malta House, she is assigned to one of our two case managers. The case managers immediately work to understand her unique situation, including any challenges that may stand in the way of achieving stability, financial security, and family well-being.

Job Readiness

Some examples that Ruth provides: “Two of our Spanish-speaking moms are currently receiving ESL (English as a Second Language) instruction, and two of our moms meet regularly with volunteers who are helping them prepare for their GED (General Educational Development) exams.”

Over the past year, several residents have completed vocational training programs and earned certifications in fields such as CNA (Certified Nursing Assistant), PCT (Patient Care Technician), and phlebotomy. The Program Team also shares employment opportunities with residents, while volunteers assist with résumé development, mock interviews, job searches, and career guidance.

These efforts help residents develop the skills and confidence needed to pursue meaningful employment and move toward financial independence.

Parenting and Life Skills

Ruth notes that Malta House is fortunate to have several medical and clinical professionals who regularly visit the house to support residents and their families.

“Two pediatricians come here each week to answer questions and provide guidance regarding pregnancies, infant health, and overall family wellness,” she says. “We also have mental health professionals and healthy-parenting educators who provide valuable support and education.”

While mothers participate in programming, Malta House also provides a nurturing environment that promotes healthy child development and family stability.

Other classes focus on practical life skills—and sometimes a little fun. “Now that it’s springtime, we have a community produce garden that our moms help maintain,” explains Ruth. “We also offer cooking classes, and once the garden begins producing vegetables, residents can learn how to incorporate fresh ingredients into healthy meals for their families.”

Residents also look forward to two relatively new classes: Sewing with Stella and Exercise with Hillary. One resident shares, “These two are the highlights of my week!”

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