Sew Loved helps at-risk teens through tough times

The Sew loved Women’s Center in downtown South Bend is built on support and encouragement for women.

“Our whole program for four years has been about building self-esteem, confidence, community, the relationships between the women,” said Vicki Miles, Director of Sew Loved.

Although it’s only a few years old, the weekly meeting has already become life-impacting for several teens.

“I did leadership classes and all that so I learned to go up I guess… like push myself,” said 19-year-old Dominique Brock of South Bend.

Those who attend come to sew, but they also come to help each other build confidence and give support.

“For us the sewing is the vehicle, ok it’s the tool to just be able to speak into their lives,” said Miles.

One teen who has been going says the program has become her escape from tough times.

“I went to where I wouldn’t talk to people and I’d be in my own world and like I don’t know. I try to juggle it all and when I come here it’s like a peace of mind,” said Brock.

The director of Sew Loved says it’s these conversations that show her how truly impactful the center is.

“It’s legitimate stuff. Family issues, things like that and that’s more important for us than the sewing,” said Miles.

And organizers say they always have room for women in need of support.

“Anybody can come, sew for free,” said Miles.

The women will have a booth at the art beat festival Saturday where they'll be raising money for the program by selling homemade projects. If it rains, organizers say the festival will happen Sunday.

You can visit the Sew Loved Facebook page or their website for more information about upcoming events.