By Patricia Schallert –
Tender Life Maternity Home offers a safe haven for pregnant women andnew mothers in crisis, providing housing and critical support for up to 18 months. The organization’s mission is to equip mothers with the tools and resources they need to build stable, independent lives for themselves and their children.
At the heart of Tender Life’s services is a commitment to creating a nurturing environment where women can gain life skills, receive parenting education and access essential services. In addition to prenatal and postpartum medical care, Tender Life offers individual and group counseling sessions, educational workshops on childbirth, breastfeeding and parenting, and comprehensive emotional support.
Postpartum care includes mental health support, breastfeeding education, and newborn care guidance. Tender Life also connects mothers with community resources for housing, job placement and childcare—ensuring a holistic support system for both mother and baby.
On March 28, Tender Life held its Second Annual Fundraiser at the historic Old Mission Basilica in Ventura, gathering community members and donors to raise support for the organization’s growing mission. Ventura City Councilmember and Tender Life board member Pastor Jim Duran played a central role in the event.
“The goal for the fundraiser that night was to raise enough money to build an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) on the new Fillmore property,” explained Duran. “This would accommodate eight more mothers at Tender Life in Fillmore.”
Currently, one mother resides at the Fillmore location, but expansion plans are well underway.
In January 2025, Tender Life celebrated the opening of the Graduate House in Fillmore, a residence designed to support women transitioning from the main Ventura program. The Graduate House provides affordable housing and continued guidance for women as they pursue education, employment, and independence.
“The next objective is to construct a four-bedroom ADU on the property to accommodate eight pregnant women in need,” said Duran. “This expansion will allow the Tender Life team to assist more mothers in crisis, offering them a safe haven filled with love and transformation.”
The March fundraiser was a critical step in moving that vision forward, helping turn hope into tangible action. With continued community support, Tender Life is building more than housing—it’s building futures. To learn more or get involved, visit tenderlifematernity.org or call 805-653-7474.
