Commerce-Funded Expansion at Missoula Nonprofit Creates Support Hub for Young Families
Mountain Home Montana opened its doors in 2000 with room for three mothers and their children. Over a quarter century later, the Missoula nonprofit remains dedicated to offering safe housing and comprehensive support to young mothers and their children. Thanks to partners like the Montana Department of Commerce’s State Small Business Credit Initiative Loan Participation Program, MoFi and First Interstate Bank, Mountain Home has grown into a 32,000-square-foot campus offering residential and transitional living programs, a childcare center and an on-site licensed mental health clinic.
“Mountain Home represents Montana’s community spirit at its best by supporting young families that need a little help to get on their feet,” said Commerce Director Marta Bertoglio. “When they succeed, we all rise together. Our SSBCI Loan Participation Program reflects that ideal by giving businesses a helping hand at just the right time.”
Through trauma-informed, two-generation services, Mountain Home helps young families build stability, strengthen parenting skills and achieve long-term self-sufficiency.
In summer 2025, Mountain Home moved into its renovated facility, a major milestone in an $11.5 million capital campaign. The new space expands capacity for housing, childcare and mental health services, creating a true hub of support for young families.
Every day, Mountain Home helps mothers like “Tayler,” “Victoria” and “Jordan” build strong foundations for their families and work toward brighter futures.
When “Tayler” entered Mountain Home at just 16 years old, she was unsure how to navigate motherhood. Through the organization’s residential programs, she stabilized, moved into transitional living and gained independence and family management skills. With holistic support from Mountain Home, she secured a steady job, continued her education and saved money. After years of dedication, growth and resilience, “Tayler” finally turned the key to her very own apartment, a place she could truly call home.
In 2024, “Victoria” celebrated her achievements as both a mother and a first-generation college student. After completing her high school equivalency exam through Mountain Home’s Supportive Employment and Education Services Program, she enrolled at the University of Montana. Her success continued, and in spring 2025 she was invited to join the Davidson Honors College in recognition of her outstanding academic performance.
“Jordan,” one of Mountain Home’s youngest mothers, also made tremendous strides. After completing her high school education with support from Mountain Home, she began working at a local nursing home as a care coordinator, building confidence and skills along the way. She now lives in the organization’s transitional living apartments and continues to grow through expanded education and employment opportunities.
These are just a few of the many stories that reflect the strength and determination of Mountain Home families. As of fall 2025, nine mothers were enrolled in college, including one working toward her master’s degree, continuing the cycle of growth and opportunity.
Mountain Home’s outcomes in 2024 demonstrate how comprehensive, trauma-informed care transforms lives:
- Ninety-four percent of mothers had access to adequate food and nutrition.
- Ninety percent achieved stable housing.
- One hundred percent maintained reliable transportation and health coverage.
- Eighty-two percent were employed or enrolled in school.
- One hundred percent of mothers in residence maintained or regained custody of their children after exiting programs.
These results represent more than numbers: They represent hope, stability and the power of investing in families. When young mothers are supported, children thrive and communities across Montana grow stronger for generations to come. With the expansion, the nonprofit aims to impact the lives of many more families in the future.
Allison Strekal, Mountain Home’s chief development officer, said, “We are incredibly thankful for the opportunity to participate in the SSBCI Program. The support came at exactly the right time and played an important role in helping us move forward with our expansion, ensuring we can continue providing stable housing and comprehensive services for families who need them most.”
Commerce’s SSBCI Loan Participation Program and Opportunities in Rural Economies Loan Participation Program are designed to meet small businesses where they are, offering flexible capital, local partnerships and a path forward for entrepreneurs across the state. To learn more about these programs and how they’re helping Montana businesses like Mountain Home Montana grow, visit commerce.mt.gov.
Tags: Article