Strategies to Meet the Needs of Young Parent Families

To understand and better meet the needs of young parents, the Urban Institute analyzed 14 programs that serve this vulnerable and often disadvantaged group to explain common themes and useful approaches in service provision. The institute’s summary report provides demography and challenges for young parents and a historical reflection on young parent programs as well. Common services included education and credential attainment, employment assistance, and parenting help, and other supports like mental health counseling, referrals for government services, child care, and transportation assistance. Based on repeated successes and challenges across programs that serve young parents, the report recommends increased federal funding and flexibility with that funding, plus more corollary supportive services and tailored solutions based on the programs’ specific target populations.