Birmingham Non-Profit Plans Shelter for Teenage Girls
The new organization seeks to provide housing and professional support for 10-12 local teens.
Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in Teens
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Tomeka Mills founded the A.W. Brooks Serenity Home in 2025 to provide a sanctuary for teenage girls aged 14-18 facing abuse or housing instability. The Birmingham-based nonprofit is currently working to secure land to establish the facility for local youth.
Why it matters
The program aims to address housing instability and safety for older teenage girls, a demographic that faces unique challenges in the foster and adoption systems. This initiative seeks to provide stable, professional support for those navigating crises.
Government data from 2022 shows that 27% of adopted children were over the age of nine, highlighting the needs of older youth. While the home expects to support 10-12 girls, the timeline for opening remains under development as the organization secures funding.
The players
Tomeka Mills
Founder of the A.W. Brooks Serenity Home and current Supply Train Coordinator at Shelby Hospital.
Alabama Department of Human Resources
State agency responsible for social services and child welfare that is partnering with the home.
The details
The planned facility will include a staff of social workers and a house mom to oversee daily operations and provide mentorship. The program partners with the Alabama Department of Human Resources to coordinate care for girls experiencing neglect or housing insecurity. Mills is actively securing grants to fund the construction and operation of the home.
Timeline
2000: A.W. Brooks passed away.
2022: 27% of adopted children were over age nine.
2025: Tomeka Mills founded A.W. Brooks Serenity Home.
2027: Mills expects to receive her bachelor's degree.
Health Landscape
This project addresses the housing and safety needs of older youth, a group often overlooked in traditional foster care models. By creating a dedicated sanctuary, the initiative follows a trend of community-based support services for adolescents in the foster system.
For teenagers or guardians in Birmingham experiencing housing crises, connecting with local social service agencies is a first step toward finding safe support. If you are concerned about a young person's immediate safety, consult with a licensed social worker or school counselor.
The takeaway
The A.W. Brooks Serenity Home focuses on providing a stable environment for teenage girls navigating significant life transitions. Families and providers are encouraged to track local youth housing resources and consult with state child welfare offices for support options.
Further reading
Learn more about local programs for Teens in the Birmingham area.
More information
Find additional information on the project at the A.W. Brooks Serenity Home website.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Birmingham Times.
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