Brooklyn nonprofit empowers young mothers

BROOKLYN, N.Y. (PIX11) -- For over a decade, the Alex House Project has been a beacon of support for young mothers in Brooklyn. However, operating without a dedicated space limited the organization's impact - until now.

The nonprofit recently acquired a 5,600-square-foot facility in Downtown Brooklyn, a game-changing development according to founder and executive director Samora Coles.

"We've been couch hopping for over a decade," Coles said. "We've never had our own space. We've always either co-shared a space or been living in a space where it's not really conducive to the type of work that we do."

The increased space will allow the Alex House Project to explore offering on-site or partnered housing solutions for mothers in need.

Coles has big ambitions for growth, stating, "We want to see departments and housing. We are going to increase our ability to provide housing for our parents. We want to be able to be in multiple locations in-state and out-of-state."

The new permanent home, opening next month, will enable the nonprofit to continue its vital mission of empowering young mothers through mentorship, resources, and support.

Kaleshia Sostre faced significant obstacles as a young mother, struggling with housing instability, lack of education, and difficulty finding a job. She joined the Alex House Project in 2013 as a participant with her two children.

"When I joined, I was actually in a shelter with my two kids, double stroller because they're only six months apart," Sostre recalled. "I started just going to the program to get advice and talk to other moms my age."

Today, Sostre stands as a testament to the program's success, having risen through the ranks to become a program manager. She received her GED and is grateful to help others going through similar experiences she once did. "I never thought I would be a facilitator teaching other moms," Sostre said.

With its new facility, the Alex House Project is poised to make an even greater impact on the lives of young mothers in Brooklyn and beyond.

The new facility will be at 9 Bond St. in Brooklyn. If you'd like to donate to the organization, please visit here.