AMARILLO, TEXAS -- There's a growing number of teen pregnancies here in Amarillo and those behind a new program are hoping to bring that number down. The program is called, "It's Just Your Future". Those involved are hoping it will give teen girls the guidance they need to avoid early aged pregnancies. It's a 1 year prevention program with incentives for teenage girls ages 14 to 18. Those incentives include material gifts like movie tickets, prom dresses to even scholarships. Family planning counseling, emotional support and educational assistance are also offered. The project director says the program is design to give the girls better self-esteem and motivation to plan their future.
"A lot of research done says that the reason that the United States has a much higher rate of teen pregnancy than Europe is because our teens don't have goals, they don't start out at a young age with goals.", says Claudia Stravato, Project Director.
Stravato says they're currently looking for teens to enroll in the program before November 1st. If you're interested in enrolling call 444-1154 and a case worker will talk with you and give you details.
