LIFE CENTER
training, Labor and Delivery, along with already offered courses such as parenting classes and pregnancy education. One of the key features that has been beneficial through the pandemic process is the BrightCourse that allows clients to view videos before their appointments.
“Since the pandemic swept in we are doing what is safest and best for our clients, which means some of our appointments are happening over the phone and some are in the office,” she said. “With the added support that was need in our community due to the impact of the pandemic, we were even able to do a diaper drive where we interviewed those needing support over the phone and then had them pick up the diapers to help us limit contact.”
In addition to the education, nursing services and soon to be added sonogram services, parents have the ability to earn baby bucks to be utilized at the center for purchasing baby items. If both parents attend the classes offered in the nine-week period, they can earn a minimum of $300 together and earn bonuses as well. The baby boutique - which will have a dedicated room once the expansion is completed.
“Our baby boutique offers new items to the parents that can help them get started, but in addition, we offer pre packed gift bags to help with clothes, formula, diapers, wipes and other
needed items,” Watson said. “Our goal is to begin offering gift bags at each appointment and the gift bags will be in alignment with what they are receiving education on; for example, if they are taking one of our classes on breastfeeding they will receive a bag with breast pads, a nursing cover, and things like that.”
She continued, “We fully believe that education goes a long way. We can’t expect people to do better if they don’t know better. The more we can educate our parents - first time parents or not - the more we can help alleviate the stress, reduce the fear they may have and just let them know they have support. Knowing you have someone to turn to and to walk this journey with helps a lot and goes a long way.”
Donations of clothing, baby items and monetary donations are accepted year round. A few of the items in high demand include diapers, wipes, lotions, soaps and other care items. Donations can be dropped off at the Life Center - items or monetary - or sent
through Amazon as some donors have done. For more information, contact the Life Center at 432-606-5041. The Life Center is located at 1801 S. Main.