Dallas, Plano concerts to help single moms offset impact of recession

by PegNews wire

Mother-only families have been hit hardest by the down turn in the economy. Unemployment during this recession has been especially steep for female heads of household, and the impact has been mind numbing for mothers trying to raise children without a support system and enough income.

“I have no idea, what to do next,” said Theresa Green, a mother of two, who lives in Plano. “The bottom has fallen out of my life and I am afraid of what might happen to my family.”

Green’s story is echoed by a flood of single mothers who are struggling to keep food on the table and a roof over their heads. Last year, a group of women formed The Single Mothers Outreach Project to provide relief and support for women raising children alone.

The SMOP has created a series of jazz concerts to raise awareness and money to help single mothers during this challenging time. The Jazz Friday Series is a monthly event, where local visual artists, jazz musicians and a sommelier come together to create a night filled with entertainment and enrichment.

There are four concerts in the series that will be held in Dallas and Plano. All of the money raised will go directly to support single mothers. This year, we are hosting our events in two intimate locations, Artfest International at 13342 Midway Road, #250 in Dallas and Plano's Courtyard Theatre, tickets to the event are $25.

“I have been overwhelmed by calls from people needing help,” said Stephanie Ward, the organization’s founder. “I did the only thing I know how to do to raise money, sell art and host great jazz sets. I am hoping we can make enough money to make a difference.”

Nearly a million single moms are out of work and their families are suffering, according to a report entitled “Women in the Recession: Working Mothers Face High Rate of Unemployment.” Congresswoman Carolyn B. Maloney, Chair of the Joint Economic Committee, said. “The fact that they (single mothers) are receiving pink slips in greater numbers than in prior recessions has serious implications for family economic well-being. Working mothers are having a tough time sheltering their families for the current economic storm, with women of color fairing the worst.”

Ms. Ward she has noticed the same thing in recent months “It is scary,” she said. Ward is asking that those not interested in attending the concert series to make a donation.

“Just today, I got a call about a young woman who is 9 months pregnant with three small children ages, 1,2 and 3 years old. Her husband left and is no longer supporting the family. She can’t find work and needs money to keep her utilities on, to buy shoes for her children and gas for the car. I am tired of saying there is no money to help. We all have a responsibility to help each other during these tough times.”

Source: Red Lime Media