Thanks to a generous gift, Options Pregnancy Clinic has a new state-of-the-art ultrasound machine for the Forsyth clinic location. On Tuesday, July 9, clinic staff hosted a thank-you event for members of Knights of Columbus #6470, the men’s fraternity of Our Lady of the Lake Catholic Church in Branson, who donated $50,000 for the equipment. A special thanks goes to Grand Knight Lee Berhorst, who led the donation process.
The Knights of Columbus members are not new to helping life-affirming causes; they regularly host or participate in community fundraisers to support pregnancy clinics and other organization needs. “We’re thankful for this clinic,” said a representative of the group. “We don’t have all the qualifications to be the boots on the ground for this important work, but we can certainly fundraise and spread the word.”
Options Pregnancy Clinic has served residents and strengthened community in and around Taney County for 31 years, providing needed support and resources to individuals experiencing unexpected pregnancies. Along with meeting Options staff and board members, the Knights members were given a tour of the Forsyth clinic facilities, which greatly facilitate serving central and eastern Taney County and surrounding area residents who may not be easily able to access services at the Branson location. Options leadership, including Executive Director Laura Fogle, shared with the guests that the clinic’s goal is to help moms and dads feel supported and loved, letting them know they are not alone in their circumstance.
A new client’s first visit to Options begins with a welcoming session with trained advocates and medical staff, during which a free confidential pregnancy test and ultrasound are offered. In addition, clients are given details of all the ways they can be helped, including free services, baby supplies, and furniture for almost two years throughout the pregnancy and until the baby’s first birthday. The clinic’s Dad Prep and Options Prep University programs provide ongoing pregnancy and parenting education, in which participation allows moms and dads to earn all the practical assistance they need for free.
Options programs have increased the rates of earlier care for clinic clients compared to Taney County averages, including decreased incidence of low birth weights. In addition to Options’ in-house programs, community partnerships allow the Options Education Team, led by team manager Adam Stewart, to reach an average of 2,000 students in Taney County schools each year with Sexual Risk Avoidance Abstinence Education.
According to Fogle, community support is essential and much appreciated for the success in strengthening our area together. Anyone facing a difficult pregnancy situation can call 417-336-5483 or text 920-319-3020 to schedule a confidential visit and pregnancy test. Visit the website, www.optionspregnancyclinic.com, or call for more information or to learn how you can donate or participate in fundraising efforts for this life-affirming community resource.
تعليقات