Literature for Life

Our Winter 2010 issue is out now!  To order a copy or to subscribe to the magazine, visit our subscription page.

Each week, pregnant and parenting teenage mothers meet at various shelters and youth centres throughout the City to read and discuss novels with trained facilitators – for many of the young mothers this is the first book that they have ever read. The young moms begin to see language as a tool to express themselves. They become empowered through reading, writing and discussions – finding new ways to solve problems and learning to be proactive in their lives instead of reactive. They begin to understand that their voices and stories have value and meaning which leads to increased self-esteem, a renewed interest in literacy and learning as well as an investment in their community.

We believe in the role of mother as a child’s first teacher. They pass these values onto their children Providing the tools to help young moms do their best is what Literature for Life is all about. By recognising the power of language, Literature for Life offers teen moms a safe environment to explore and learn to use language to her advantage and to benefit her children. Through reading, writing and performance, young mothers from local parenting centre and social service agencies develop the confidence that allows her to articulate her thoughts, feelings, needs and become a better advocate for herself and her child. Often she will feel inspired to return to a formal education, simple because she sees that she can.

To speak – and to be heard. To write – and to be read. Empowering young mothers is the greatest gift Literature for Life has given to more than 1600 young women plus their children since 2000.

Please help us continue on our quest to be the Literacy Champion for at risk young families living in the Province of Ontario. Help us show young mothers and their children we still care, we’re still listening.