At Vita Nova Maternity Community, every woman who walks through the doors carries a story—and with the right support, that story can transform into one of strength, stability and new beginnings. One such story belongs to Katie, a current resident whose time at Vita Nova has been marked by growth, healing and hope.
From overwhelmed to empowered
Katie’s world shifted when she learned she was pregnant. With limited support and no stable housing, she wasn’t sure where to turn. She had a job she loved in childcare but balancing work and an unexpected pregnancy without a secure place to live left her feeling stretched thin.
“I was sleeping on a friend’s couch,” Katie recalled. “I just knew I needed something more—not just for me but for my baby.”
That “something more” turned out to be Vita Nova.
More than housing—a place to heal and grow
From day one, Katie said she felt welcomed and respected. “It was peaceful. Safe. It didn’t feel like a shelter—it felt like a home,” she said.
Vita Nova offers more than just a room. It’s a comprehensive program for pregnant women and new mothers in need of support and services. Katie quickly became part of a structured routine that included life skills classes, parenting workshops, meal preparation and daily check-ins with staff who care.
“The workshops helped me prepare for motherhood. I learned how to budget, how to make healthy meals and how to take care of myself emotionally,” Katie shared. “I didn’t realize how much I needed that.”
A critical resource in a ‘maternity care desert’
Katie’s story reflects the growing need for maternity care in Nebraska—especially in areas classified as “maternity care deserts,” where essential services are scarce. In a previous blog post, we explored how many expectant mothers in our state face long drives, limited access and uncertain outcomes.
Vita Nova helps fill that gap by offering direct access to critical supports in a residential setting—helping women stay healthy, connected and cared for.
A future reimagined—with baby Sofia in her arms
Since giving birth to her daughter Sofia in September 2024, Katie has grown personally and practically. She’s adjusting to life as a new mom, forming strong connections with other residents and regaining her sense of direction. She talks about the joys and challenges of caring for her baby and looks ahead with optimism—possibly returning to school or building on her work in early childhood care.
“I feel like I’ve found my footing again,” Katie said. “I’m not the same person I was when I got here. I’m more confident. I have goals. I have peace.”
You can be part of stories like Katie’s
Katie’s journey is just one example of the transformation that happens at Vita Nova. Every day, we walk alongside women as they find hope, stability and a fresh start.
To learn more about how you can support our mission—through donations, partnerships or volunteer efforts—visit vitanovamaternity.org.
Together, we can continue to be a place where new lives truly begin.