Teen parents from Massachusetts lobby for more state funding for programs

 YouthBuild in Springfield is a program sponsored by theYWCA of Western Massachusetts that offers education services and teaches construction skills. Ramirez was among about 700 people who was at the Statehouse who attended an annual "teen parent lobby day" to urge legislators to finance services such as school-based health centers, child care, teenage pregnancy prevention and a shelter program for teen mothers with histories of trauma, abuse and neglect.Also at the Statehouse, the Rev. Morris Stimage-Norwood, pastor at the Greater New Life Christian Center in the Indian Orchard section of Springfield, attended an event held to advocate for funding for grants under the Charles E. Shannon effort to reduce gang violence.At teen lobby day, teen parents attempted to counter the perception that they are hurt by low expectations and stigma."They should fund more programs like this. They can change lives."