Helping Mothers in Need Through Pregnancy Support Services

Pope Francis has called for parishes to be "islands of mercy in the midst of a sea of indifference." In response to this call, the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops recently launched  Walking With Moms in Need: A Year of Service. This nationwide effort envisions that parish communities increase outreach to pregnant and parenting moms in need. 

Assisting pregnant mothers in need is especially critical during the coronavirus pandemic. Due to attempts to curb the spread of the virus, many people have been furloughed or laid off increasing economic strain and uncertainty. Sadly, heightened financial stress and fear of the unknown, as well as health concerns related to the virus, are likely to cause more women to seek abortion thinking it is the best and perhaps the only option for them and their families.
 
A network of more than 100 local, non-profit pregnancy support service centers across the state offer help to women faced with difficult pregnancy decisions. These centers provide resources and services such as counseling, referrals, material assistance, training, and pregnancy and childbirth education to pregnant mothers as they prepare to parent or place their babies for adoption. Clients are eligible to receive services for up to one year after the child's birth. 

To find the pregnancy support service centers in your area in order to support their work or to refer women in need, you can visit the Florida Pregnancy Support Services Program website at:  www.floridapregnancysupport.com.