Many Hands recently checked in with the Healthy Babies Project (HBP), a two time Many Hands grantee. In 2020 Healthy Babies received a partner grant of $13,000. In 2024 Many Hands again provided a partner grant to HPB. Thanks to the generous support of our members, the 2024 grant was $69,000.
The Healthy Babies Project empowers DC youth to build healthy, stable lives by offering: life skills training to prevent youth pregnancy; case management and peer support to nurture healthy families; and job readiness and advocacy so they can move out of poverty.
In 2024 HBP set an ambitious goal expanding its housing capacity through a major renovation to provide long term housing (12-24 months) and wrap around services. According to Executive Director Regine Elie, it proved more challenging than anticipated. “During the permitting process, we encountered an unexpected challenge—our entire building had to be demolished. We remained committed to our vision, ensuring that our new space would be built on a strong and sustainable foundation.”
Though the journey was not easy, HBP continued to excel at what it does best: supporting survivors of abuse, encouraging educational successes, helping families achieve economic stability, and fostering healthy pregnancies and deliveries. See Healthy Babies Project by the Numbers for more information.
Regine credits Many Hands and other supporters with their success. The facility will soon be completed. “We could not have done this without Many Hands, and we look forward to celebrating this milestone with our supporters at the finish line.”
Changing Lives: Nia’s Story
Statistics tell only part of the story. HBP support runs deep. Nia came to the Healthy Babies Project at 16 years old and pregnant. Her family had been evicted, leaving her homeless and sleeping outside. She temporarily stayed with her child’s father, but he was abusive. One night, the abuse escalated and in the chaos, her son was also injured. That night, she called her Family Support Worker (FSW), and the very next day, she moved into housing provided by HBP, Perennial House.
Nia worked with her FSW to find long-term housing, saving and staying focused on her goals. She earned her GED and secured stable housing. Today, her children are healthy, and she is financially independent.
Yet, life brought another challenge—she is now battling cancer and recovering from an apartment fire.
HBP supports Nia, and women like her, through crisis and triumph. “As we near the completion of our new building and expand our programs, our commitment to serving mothers, children, and youth remains stronger than ever” says Regine. The Healthy Babies Project is building more than just walls—we are creating a future where families have stability, support, and the tools to thrive.”
