Weaving a Web of Support by Marika Lindholm

There are over 22 million American children being raised by single moms. In towns and cities across our country, millions of moms rarely get help, a day off or a vacation from the difficult job of parenting on their own. They love their children fiercely and often put their child’s needs ahead of their own. But parenting is hard and even harder when alone. Unfortunately, stereotypes and half-truths about single moms add one more challenge to an already demanding situation. Single moms deserve better. Single moms are strong, capable and hard working. No one understands this more than a mom who’s been there. Like Jennifer Graham, who was inspired to create Shelter from the Rain, single moms are beginning to weave a web of support and compassion that seeks to give hope to single moms across this nation.

As founder of ESME (Empowering Solo Moms Everywhere), I’m proud to contribute to the growing trend of single moms supporting one another. At ESME.com, we are guided by the belief that women parenting on their own don’t all have to share the same background, upbringing and circumstances to find connection and offer support. Solo Moms are a diverse group: divorced, widowed, Solo by choice or circumstance such as, a partner’s deployment or incarceration. ESME’s mission is to connect Solo Moms and former Solo Moms, from all walks of life, so that they can offer each other advice, resources, inspiration and maybe a laugh or two. Together we are stronger and wiser.

By honoring the strength and diversity of the Solo Mom community, ESME’s tagline Independent Together comes to life as we set out to redefine single motherhood. When Solo Moms are empowered by mutual support, there’s no place for pity, scorn or blame.  It’s time for Solo Moms to bridge our differences, build a strong coalition and demonstrate that single mom families are a valuable part of the American landscape. 


By Marika Lindholm, Founder of ESME (Empowering Solo Moms Everywhere)
ESME.com