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Women navigating substance use disorders during pregnancy face tremendous obstacles—not only in recovery, but in preserving their role as mothers. For many, giving birth while in treatment can mean immediate separation from their newborns, prolonged hospital stays, and the trauma of involvement with the child welfare system.
First Step Home saw a need to change that outcome. At its Terry Schoenling Home for Mothers and Infants, they envisioned a space where women could heal, bond with their babies, and receive holistic support during one of the most vulnerable times of their lives. But to bring that vision fully to life, they needed expanded capacity, better safety infrastructure, and stronger clinical alignment.
With a transformational grant from Impact 100, First Step Home was able to enhance the Schoenling Home in meaningful ways:
Improved clinical assessments ensured women entering the program were better prepared to care for their newborns at birth.
New security cameras created a safer environment for mothers and infants.
Increased staffing capacity allowed for deeper support and consistent therapeutic care.
These upgrades did more than improve a building—they redefined what’s possible for families in crisis.
Sadie’s Story
Sadie arrived at First Step Home immediately after giving birth to her daughter. She spent four weeks at the Schoenling Home, where she received wraparound care: maternal support groups, pediatric nursing, and one-on-one counseling to help her manage impulsive behaviors.
After her stay, she transitioned into campus housing, secured part-time work, found daycare, and maintained her sobriety. She’s now interviewing for permanent supportive housing. Sadie also began healing family relationships, reconnecting with her mother after seven months apart.
She recently told a house manager, “Great things happen when you do the right thing.”
Betsy’s Story
Betsy entered the program two months before giving birth. Thanks to the safety and structure of the Schoenling Home, she was able to bring not only her newborn but her two older daughters to live with her during treatment—a privilege made possible by new Child Protective Services protocols that now recognize First Step Home as a safe environment for family preservation.
While overwhelmed at first, Betsy leaned into the parenting support offered. With help from the maternal team, she learned new tools to support her toddler’s emotional needs and create stability for all three children.
After graduating from the Schoenling Home, she moved into campus housing, with all of her children by her side.
Since receiving the grant, First Step Home has achieved remarkable outcomes:
75% of clients have maintained at least 30 days of sobriety.
20 mothers have been allowed by CPS to return to First Step Home with their newborns—a new and affirming shift in policy.
Mothers report lower stress, increased confidence, and higher rates of abstinence and stability.
More newborns are staying in their mothers’ care—even when extended hospital stays are needed.
See how Impact 100’s investment in bold, transformative projects promotes thriving communities throughout the Greater Cincinnati region.
