Keep focus on plight of young parents

We appreciate The Gazette's front page coverage of the challenges young parents in our community face ('Young Parents in Iowa See Limited Options,” Sept. 25). YPN (formerly Young Parents Network) has been serving young parents and their families in Eastern Iowa for over 30 years. We know firsthand how barriers such as poverty, limited resources, and lack of access to education and employment can have profound effect on not only moms and dads, but their children as well.

In fiscal year 2018, YPN served over 1,950 individuals in our core programs, which offer support, resources, and prenatal/parenting education free of charge. In addition, YPN has several early literacy initiatives that help get children school-ready. We offer programs designed specifically for Latino and African populations and partner with several other human services agencies to expand our reach. With the help of generous community donors, we are able to provide some educational support to those participants who wish to further their education.

We hope to see more coverage about this very important issue that has significant generational impact, including success stories of young parents in our community who are living this reality every day yet remain committed to making a better life for themselves and their families.

Tisha Ritter

Development Coordinator, YPN

Cedar Rapids