In Carver County, the Beyond New Beginnings (BNB) program is more than just a housing initiative - it is a lifeline for young mothers striving for independence, stability and a better future for their children. This unique project not only provides affordable housing but also a supportive community that fosters growth and self-discovery.
BNB is a nonprofit organization that was co-founded in 2019 by educators from New Beginnings High School, which serves pregnant and parenting teen students. The four-unit building in downtown Chaska offers two-bedroom apartments to moms between the ages of 18 and 26 and their kids. BNB includes a common area that serves as a hub for classes, playtime, meals and family gatherings.
In this supportive setting, moms learn independent living skills such as self-care, budgeting, nutrition, parenting and planning for the future. They also gain access to mentorship from fellow moms, program alumni and staff.
Samantha Roth, University of Minnesota Extension educator and accredited financial counselor, has worked with BNB since its inception. She helps participants become empowered to take control of their own finances with a highly personalized approach. Roth meets with mothers both as a group and one-on-one to discuss finances, bill payments, budgeting, credit, debt issues and other challenges they face.
Photo credit: Taylor Hubbard Photography
Roth emphasizes her role as a guide, tailoring her assistance to what matters most to each mother. For Tatiana, a mom to three, it was learning how to make and stick to a budget to ensure she could afford her apartment.
"When she first came into the program, I could tell she was overwhelmed. It was her first time living independently with her kids, and she was really ready for this next step, but she just needed to build up her confidence," says Roth.
Roth and Tatiana delved into her finances, working together to create a plan that addressed living expenses, food, transportation and rent.
"After meeting with Sam, I felt so much better and have been making all the required payments to keep my apartment," says Tatiana.
Whether it's aiding mothers in securing financial aid for education, negotiating debt, connecting them with Extension resources like SNAP-Ed or simply checking in through a text, Roth is committed to setting these moms up for success.
"I'm not here to judge or to tell you what to do. I am here to help you reach your goals. We have all made unwise choices in life and with money, and it's important for moms to know that they are not alone," says Roth.
As mothers transition out of the program, Roth makes sure they leave knowing she remains an ally for them and their children.
“They know I’m a cheerleader who is always in their corner and that I’ll always pick up the phone when they reach out,” says Roth.
"The moms who participate in the Beyond New Program are committed to making a better life for themselves and their children. They understand that having a solid financial plan will keep them from getting evicted and enable them to afford what they need to be successful,” says Jill Engeswick, co-founder and program director of BNB. “They appreciate Sam's empathetic advice, as well as her experience and knowledge."
Through personalized mentorship and financial counseling, Roth and Beyond New Beginnings are paving the way toward a future where safe housing, stability and independence are within reach for every mother.
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