Recently during our parenting class, a volunteer asked a young mom-to-be, “Do you think your mom or your boyfriend’s mom will host your baby shower?” The young woman’s countenance fell as she replied, “I won’t be getting a baby shower. There’s no one to give me one.” My heart shattered—memories of the multiple baby showers I was given came to mind. Sometimes it’s easy to forget the overwhelming support some of us have from family, friends, and church family in our lives.
This young woman didn’t know God was already working with us here at Choices Resource Center on a plan to help our parents in new, practical ways. For many of our first-time expectant parents, it’s hard to stay faithful in our parenting program. They don’t have the immediate need for diapers, wipes, and clothing. It’s important that they come to the classes so they can hear about Jesus’ love for them and learn about healthy pregnancies, life skills like budgeting, and how to be the best mom and dad they can be.
So we devised a plan. We made incentives for them to stick with the parenting program while expecting their little one. If they complete the first set of requirements, they are given a gender reveal party complete with food, decorations, cake, and a gift. Then if they complete the second set of requirements, they are given a baby shower also with food, decorations, and cake. The parents can pick new items they need for their little one that may not be available through our baby store. We encourage them to invite their friends and family if they would like. And on Friday or Saturday, while the center is closed to clients, we host the shower.
When we shared our new incentives for the parenting class with this young woman, genuine relief and excitement spread across her face. Now she will receive the new stroller she had been saving for as well as some other baby items she needs that aren’t available in our baby store.
Saving the life of the baby is our #1 priority here at Choices—this will never change. Giving mom and dad the tools to raise that baby is priority #2. These efforts go hand in hand. And please don’t miss this: The gospel is threaded through everything we do.
We are all getting hit financially with inflation and rising gas prices, but the hit for most of us is minimal compared to those with less. When you partner with us at Choices, you are not only saving the lives of babies, but you are also feeding their parents on Monday nights during parenting class—spiritually and physically—and helping them become better parents to that life saved. Thank you for allowing these parents to not simply survive during this hard time but thrive!
