For single mothers, the journey to stability and fulfillment is often fraught with challenges. From financial strain to loneliness and exhaustion, it can feel like an unending cycle. However, Kaleo Collective is offering a beacon of hope with its – an eight-week program designed by single moms, for single moms, making it the first of its kind in the area.
Founder Layna Haley’s personal motherhood journey is deeply intertwined with the mission of Kaleo Collective. At 16, Layna faced a difficult decision when she learned she was pregnant: "I was a child myself and chose to become a parent without knowing exactly how I would do it."
As a single mother for eight years, Layna lived through the unique struggles many moms face – loneliness, exhaustion, financial strain and the burden of filling both parental roles.
"I understand first hand the immense pressure single moms are under," Layna says. "The desire to provide the best for your child is universal, but for some, life is an endless cycle of poverty, legal battles and finding work that can support the whole family."
It was her own experiences in motherhood that led Layna to found Kaleo Collective – a nonprofit dedicated to offering single mothers the support, resources and community they need to break free from these cycles.
The Single Mom Resource Course is more than just a program – it’s a lifeline. essential to a single mother's success, from time management and budgeting, to meal planning and stress management. The course also helps mothers build emotional resilience and create meaningful memories with their children. But just as importantly, it fosters a deep sense of connection and support among participants.
“We believe that the greatest resource for women is often another woman in a similar situation,” Layna says. “By bringing single mothers together, we create a powerful network of encouragement, understanding and shared wisdom.”
While mothers focus on learning, their children participate in a parallel program designed just for them. Through interactive activities, creative play and team-building exercises, kids have fun while also learning valuable life skills like friendship-building, emotional awareness and confidence. This ensures that while moms are gaining the tools to build a better future, their children are also thriving in a safe, engaging and educational environment.
Upcoming Single Mom Resource Courses
Spring/summer 2025 in-person sessions
- When: May 6 to June 24 - Tuesday nights - 5 to 6 p.m.
- Where: -
Spring/summer 2025 online sessions
- When: Course starts in May (register by April 30)
As the first initiative of its kind in the area, the program is government-funded* and offers free classes for children so mothers can fully engage. Space is limited and early registration is encouraged. Online evening courses are also available for those unable to attend in person
Kaleo Collective’s impact extends far beyond the classroom. Through its weekly online, single mothers anywhere can log in to access support and find community.
For more information visit Kaleo Collective online at or contact Christina Paling, B.C. Program Manager, at Christina@Kaleocollective.ca. Follow them on and for the latest program updates and more!
*This project has been funded through Women and Gender Equality Canada's Women's Program.