More Young Single Moms In Bibb County Seeking Higher Education

MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – There are more young single moms living in Middle Georgia today than ever before.  New numbers from Child Trends show that many of them are even pursuing a college degree.

“From 7 o’clock to 9 o’clock it’s a busy day,” said Deena McDowell, Macon.

26-year-old Deena McDowell is a single mother of the love of her life, 5-year-old Da’Shawn.

“The statement is true.  Don’t judge a book by its cover, but most people does,” explained McDowell.

The young mom feels judged for her lifestyle

“First things come to mind are single mom, where she stays, welfare,” said McDowell.

“In the community it might be considered a drain on the economy,” said Rena Waller.

The Education Coordinator at Family Advancement Ministries in Macon works with single moms every day, some who choose to raise a child alone.

“You also see people that had no intentions of getting pregnant, especially the younger crowd,” explained Waller.

Child Trends, a research group that analyzes government data, found the proportion of unwed mothers under age 30 in Bibb County increased 37% in 20 years.  The latest information shows young single moms in this age group increased 10% in the African American community and rose 24% among the caucasian population.