When most people think of a pregnancy resource center (PRC), they rightly think first about the babies that are saved. When women are given a chance to see their baby in the womb through ultrasound technology, most will choose to carry the baby to term. But what if I told you that many PRCs are also investing time and money in helping the mothers (and sometimes fathers) of these babies?
Recently, I had the privilege of visiting a PRC in Kansas City called Parkville Women’s Clinic. Throughout my visit, I was amazed at all this clinic is doing to serve these vulnerable women. Every single staff member at the clinic cares deeply for the women that come through their doors. They pivoted to care for women during COVID-19, demonstrating that their ability to meet these women where they are is a huge asset to their ministry.
Through care and attention to these mothers, Parkville Women’s Clinic models what it means to be holistically pro-life, valuing the life of the baby in the womb just as much as the woman carrying that baby, because all of life is sacred. Many women who come to a PRC are scared and don’t know what to do. And if a woman decides to carry the baby to term, the work doesn’t end. In fact, this is when the ministry of this clinic really shines. Here are just some of the things they do to serve parents of babies whose lives are saved through ultrasound machine technology:
Equipping and education: Mothers have access to “Bright Course Lessons” which are digital lessons that can be accessed through their phones or a computer. These courses are very practical, and many are geared toward parenting: Your first trimester, infant temperament, breastfeeding, getting your baby to sleep, etc. Others are designed to help the mother succeed in additional areas of life: Preparing for a job interview, staying out of debt, budgeting 101, domestic violence, relationships loss, and more. The women are able to earn points for products in the clinic’s “store.”
Providing products for baby: Volunteers at the clinic manage an entire room of donated baby clothes, books, diapers, and other baby gear that women can get as needed. These are things that a woman in a vulnerable situation benefits from as they prepare for and bring a newborn home. The most common product moms need are diapers and wipes. Pre-COVID, the clinic offered weekly lessons. Any who attended could shop in the store after class. I could tell the staff was thankful for the many donations they receive from the community.
Investing into the dad: Some of the Bright Course Lessons are geared entirely to the father. Being a leader, respect for mothers, and co-parenting are just some of the classes offered to expectant dads. They also have trained staff who regularly meet with fathers to help them understand what is going on and how they can be supportive.
To truly support a life, we must support the parents. That means coming alongside them and helping them make choices that will help the parents and baby thrive. I’m grateful that Parkville Women’s Clinic sees the innate value of both the baby and parents.
Do you want to help save lives? Most women in a crisis pregnancy who are given a glimpse of the life within them choose life. However, this is only possible when women can go to a pregnancy center with an ultrasound machine. Sonogram machines are expensive, costing tens of thousands of dollars. Most crisis pregnancy centers do not have the funds to buy the equipment or have a medical expert on staff to read the output. When you donate to the Psalm 139 Project, 100% of your funds go to ultrasound machine placement and training PRC staff members. Will you consider giving a tax-deductible donation to Psalm 139 and help us stand for life?
