by Valerie Harkins, Executive Director of the Maternity Housing Coalition
The story of maternity housing in 2024 is one of resilience, growth, and a deepening commitment to supporting women in need. Across the United States and beyond, the Maternity Housing Coalition (MHC) has witnessed a remarkable expansion of its reach, reflecting broader trends of compassion and community-driven solutions in an ever-evolving social landscape. This year’s impact report paints a picture of a movement gaining momentum, fueled by the collective efforts of affiliates and a shared vision of care.
In the United States, the number of maternity homes has climbed steadily, reaching nearly 500 by the close of 2024—a notable rise from the previous year. This growth, sparked in part by the post-Dobbs landscape, tells a tale of adaptation and response. Since 2022, the total number of homes has swelled by more than 17%, with new startups doubling from last year alone. These figures hint at a quiet but powerful surge: communities stepping up, often in the face of daunting challenges, to provide safe havens for expectant and new mothers. The MHC's affiliates—those dedicated organizations that amplify this mission—grew by almost 14%, with a striking 38.5% increase since the Dobbs decision reshaped the national conversation around maternal support. Today, these homes stretch across 48 states, weaving a tapestry of care that touches nearly every corner of the country.
The women at the heart of this story—over 1,200 served, by conservative estimates—represent the real impact. Each number is a life supported, a mother given the stability and resources to navigate one of life’s most transformative moments. And while the data captures only a fraction of the full picture, it underscores a growing need and an equally growing response. Notably, more than 50 of these homes partner with pregnancy help centers, bridging gaps and creating a continuum of care that feels both innovative and deeply rooted in community values.
Internationally, the narrative takes on an even broader scope. With maternity homes now present in 30 countries and more than 150 in operation, the global footprint of this work is expanding at an inspiring pace. The MHC's international affiliates, numbering over 70, reflect a 17% leap in market share—a testament to the universal resonance of this mission. Mothers everywhere, it seems, are finding solidarity and support through these networks, from rural villages to bustling cities. In contrast, the U.S. market share, while still commanding a significant 42%, grew more modestly, suggesting that the international story may be where the next chapter of this movement unfolds most dramatically.
What ties these trends together is the MHC itself—a steady hand fostering connection, offering training, and advocating for policies that uplift maternity housing as a vital resource. The rise in startups, the deepening ties with affiliates, and the international swell all point to a truth: this work is not just about homes, but about building a foundation for hope. As legislative landscapes shift and societal needs evolve, the Maternity Housing Coalition stands as a beacon, guiding its members toward a future where no mother walks alone. In 2024, that future feels closer than ever.
MHC's 2024 Impact Report will be published and available at this year's International Pregnancy Help Conference. Join us and register today!
