A rise in teen pregnancy rates and the absence of local programs for preschool children led volunteers to form a new support group for teen parents.

"We know of at least two teen moms who are going to Cumming each week to a group for teen moms," said Nancy Stites of Family Connection, a partner agency with Growing Bright Stars, which focuses on kindergarten readiness.

Stites said the number of teen parents in the county hasn't been determined, though a recent look into teen pregnancy indicates nearly three dozen young women under the age of 20 are receiving assistance from the Dawson County Health Department's Women, Infants and Children program.

"That number alone is enough to get a group together here," she said.

Parent Café will meet monthly at the Dawson County Library beginning in June.

Initially, the meetings will be a focus group, a chance for parents to meet others with similar experiences and an opportunity to receive and share parenting tips and child development milestones, according to Stites.

The first meeting will be at 6 p.m. June 30. Dinner and child care will be provided.

For more information or to register, call (706) 265-1981.