Abstract

The evaluation of the efficiency of a support program for adolescent mothers, and their children, is presented. Participants belonged to low socio-economic levels, from Santiago (Chile). The program is based on agents from the community -denominated monitors- who carry out the work with the mothers and their children. Information tests were applied, and the group work of the 32 monitors were observed. Interviews were carried out in all the levels of the program, including the 15 adolescent mothers participants. Results indicate that the service of the program had good quality, with strenghts and weakness. Monitors of the mothers were better than the monitors of the children, in theoretical aspects and in the managing of their respective groups. The operation conditions of the program were positive. The adolescent mothers report satisfaction with the program. Suggestions are presented in order to solve the problems usually faced in the implementation of community programs.