Today brings something new to Natchez.

Until now our town has been the only one of its size in Mississippi without a pregnancy resource center, a much-needed facility considering the highly publicized fact that our state has one of the highest teen pregnancy rates in the nation.

While the troublesome number of unplanned pregnancies needs to be addressed by churches, parents or other trusted adults, we at Pro-Life Natchez-Adams County acknowledging reality, are approaching the situation as it already exists.

We recognize that when a pregnancy has occurred a new life has been created, therefore we have a compelling obligation to meet the young woman at the point of her need.

For this reason our group is establishing the Caring Hearts Pregnancy Resource Center. After more than a year of planning and two training sessions for volunteers, we will open our doors at 1 p.m. today.

Our location is in the Multi-purpose Building of the New Covenant Presbyterian Church, 130 Homochitto St.

Clients are asked to use the entrance that’s on the left side of the building and follow the signs.

At Caring Heart Pregnancy Resource Center, our participants will be enabled to make informed choices as they determine the best future for themselves and their babies.

They will also find a supportive friend, guidance to appropriate assistance agencies and valuable instructional sources in addition to access to practical items such as nursery equipment, diapers, maternity and baby clothes as needed. We also provide free pregnancy tests.

Of course, all of our services are confidential and free of charge.

We will be open every Thursday afternoon from 1 to 5 p.m. beginning today. Our future plans include being open on Saturday mornings as soon as scheduling permits.

While walk-ins are always welcomed on Thursday afternoons, anyone can make an appointment by calling 601-870-4538 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. For more information, call this same number to speak to a representative.

We want to hear from you.

Whether you are interested in our services, want to volunteer and be a part of the Caring Hearts team, or if you just want more information, we welcome your call.

 

Virginia O’Beirne is a co-chairman of Pro-Life Natchez-Adams County.