AN unwanted pregnancy has enormous implications for an expectant mother and her family. So does a crisis pregnancy, especially when it comes to teenage pregnancies. New Life Crisis Pregnancy Centre has for the past 20 years been of service to their pregnant women and girls.
“We believe that every life is sacred and a gift from God. So, through our service we try to support every person that walks through our doors,” said Johanna George, Director of New Life Crisis Pregnancy Centre.
It is a non-profit based organisation offering free pregnancy tests to any girl or woman, regardless of her age, background, financial status, race or religion. The centre is situated in Uitenhage on the premises of the Caledon Street Congregational Church. It was established in Uitenhage during 1998 by Reverend Laurie Wilmot.
“At the centre we assist the girls or women through lay-counselling to cope with the results of their tests. We try to help the girl or woman see the bigger picture beyond her immediate crisis and offer options counselling to her in a confidential, loving and supportive environment,” said Johanna.
The lay-counselling is offered for miscarriage, stillbirth, infant loss, HIV and Aids as well as for abortion recovery.
Currently the centre has three educational programmes, Antenatal Classes, Loving Moms Support Group and Beauty & Baby.
“These programmes go along with practical support in whatever way we can, by providing healthy nutrition, nappies, Formula, baby clothes and toiletries.
“This we will not be able to do without the open hearts of our community, individuals and local businesses that have been supporting us through the past 20 years,” said Johanna.
All of the services at New Life are being done free of charge by trained volunteers who give of their time, without any remuneration to serve their community.
“With the new laws on abortion and many options in Uitenhage to have an abortion, we are here to support any girl or woman by counselling them in a non-judgemental way. But, showing them that there are other options and that we are willing to walk the road with them whatever decision they decide to take,” said Johanna.
She thanked the volunteer for their unselfish dedication towards the women and girls in a pregnancy crisis and also the community for their continuous support.
- For more information regarding the New Life Crisis Pregnancy Centre and ways in which you can get involved in through donations or rendering volunteer services contact Johanna George at 071 924 7845 or the New Life CPC office at 041 991 0217.
