Motherhood is no easy journey, and for single mothers, that journey is made even harder by obstacles often beyond their control. In 2018, Mommies Matter was founded to walk alongside single, pregnant mothers in central Ohio with a mission of empowering them by “doing life together.”
From the start, the focus has been journeying with single mothers not only through their pregnancies but through the birth of their child and well beyond.
Now, eight years later, hundreds of “Mommies” have been supported by an organization that’s vision is for every mother to embrace her dignity and value as a woman.
“God sees their potential,” says founder and director Monica Flynn. “He calls us to love them in both word and deed.”
A Community of Love
Uber rides, maternity leave assistance, diapers, life‑coaching sessions – these are just a few of the wide range of services provided to Mommies in the program, though perhaps none are as impactful as the sense of community they are welcomed into.
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Fueled by compassion and love, Mommies Matter believes that community is essential to enriching these women’s lives. Through monthly in‑person “Enrichment” gatherings, they aim to bring Mommies together to foster relationships and find accompaniment in their individual journeys. With the help of invaluable volunteers, they even provide childcare and a home‑cooked dinner, creating a space where the women can feel comfortable, cared for, and worry‑free for the evening.
Some of the annual Enrichment gatherings include a beautiful Mother’s Day celebration, Christmas with Santa, and twice‑a‑year prayer showers where the Mommies are prayed over for their specific intentions. Many of these prayer requests center on stability in their mental health and the strength and endurance to be good mothers to their children.
“These Mommies are so vulnerable,” says one volunteer. “It’s honestly inspiring to see them show up again and again in spite of their hardships.”
Pouring Into a Place Called Home
Housing is a particularly difficult hardship for single parents, especially in Ohio, where it’s becoming increasingly challenging for residents to pay rent as housing costs outpace wages.
Mommies Matter is working to bridge that gap through a partnership with Vista Village, Columbus’ first tiny home community.
“Housing is such a beast for these ladies,” says Flynn. “It breaks my heart.”
Phase two of Vista Village is set to break ground in 2027, with the purpose of establishing a community of tiny homes for single mothers.
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Mommies Matter’s goal is to build several homes designated specifically for Mommies Matter clients, expanding the resources available to strengthen their path toward stability, confidence and long‑term success. Together with Vista Village, they’re creating a place where every Mommie is supported, encouraged and equipped for a brighter future.
As one volunteer beautifully put it, “Tiny homes, big LOVE.”
We Weren’t Made to Do It Alone
Mommies Matter is driven by a strong faith in Christ and living his greatest commandment of loving God and loving our neighbor as ourselves. Galatians 6:2 says, “Bear one another’s burdens and so fulfill the law of Christ.” By living this verse, they create a space where these women don’t just hear about Christ’s love – they feel it.
Today, there are more than 60 Mommies in the program. Each brings her own personal traumas and unique burdens, but with Mommies Matter, they are reminded that no mother is alone in her journey. Through consistent support and meaningful connection, they gain the stability and encouragement needed to move forward with confidence.
They are embraced by a community that is pro‑woman and pro‑love.
“I just so appreciate this group and you guys for the support and understanding and help. It means more than I could ever put into words. All I want is to be the best mommy to my little peanut, and the support I’ve gotten is making me feel more capable of being the best me possible for myself and for my baby boy.”
— Mommie H.