HBC MISSIONS COMMITTEE

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Wednesday, April 11, 2012

Information About Carenet's Ministry

Pregnancy Resource Center

of North Central Massachusetts, Inc.

Care Net Pregnancy Resource Center of North Central Massachusetts, Inc., is a Christian ministry offering free pregnancy tests, limited obstetrical ultrasound, parenting classes and related services to women of childbearing age, as well as support services to their partners and children. Confidential peer counseling is offered in an objective and non-judgmental way to those who need a listening ear and assistance in decision making. Referrals are made as needed for professional counseling, medical and social services not provided by the center.

Abstinence from premarital sexual activity is recommended to single clients as the surest protection against sexually transmitted infections and the prevention of unplanned pregnancy. The center participates in health fairs at local high schools, promoting abstinence until marriage and educating students about the risks of sexually transmitted diseases.

Adoption is presented to clients as a loving choice. The center refers only to licensed adoption agencies for the completion of the adoption process.

Childbirth Education and Parenting classes are offered to clients. Information is provided about pregnancy, labor and delivery, early childhood development, and child discipline and training. Classes are open to men and women. Clients are often referred by the Department of Children and Families and other agencies. This is an “earn while you learn” program. Upon completion of the classes, clients are able to “purchase” new baby items from the Baby Boutique. Items stocked include diapers, infant to 2T clothing and general baby care items. Gently used maternity and infant clothing is available to anyone in need regardless of class attendance.

Abortion Recovery - Care Net PRC realizes that the choice for abortion can cause emotional stress and grief. Abortion statistics show that 43% of women have had at least one abortion by age 45. We offer post abortion support through a series called P.A.C.E. (Post Abortion Care & Education) that can assist in the healing process.

Twenty-Four Hour Help Line - By dialing 800-395-HELP, our clients can be helped 24/7 by trained peer counselors. During business hours local callers are directed to our phone lines.

Web Sites - www.carenetfitchburg.net and www.friendsofcarenetfitchburg.org

National Affiliation – This center is an affiliate of Care Net which is based in Virginia. They provide policy and procedure recommendations and standards of care. The center is also an affiliate of NIFLA (National Institute of Family and Life Advocates) whose headquarters are also based in Virginia. NIFLA provides excellent medical clinic guidelines and legal oversight.

Local Information - The center is a 501(c) (3) with all services offered at no cost to the client. We have been in operation in Fitchburg since 1976. The present staff and board represent many different Christian church denominations. The center is a member of the North Central Mass Chamber of Commerce. We are supported by local individuals, churches and businesses. The national affiliations do not provide funding.

Licensed Medical Clinic – Care Net PRC is licensed by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health as a medical clinic offering pregnancy testing and limited obstetrical ultrasound services.

Care Net Pregnancy Resource Center, out of concern for the health of women and the value of all human life does not refer for abortion services.

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