September 3, 2010

Center for expectant moms quickly finds great need in Republic

by Linda Russell, KY3 News

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Story Published: Sep 13, 2009 at 10:30 PM CDT

Story Updated: Sep 14, 2009 at 12:17 AM CDT

REPUBLIC, Mo. -- A place for expectant mothers who weren't expecting to get pregnant is already outgrowing its facility. The Republic Pregnancy Resource Center has already helped about 20 expectant moms in need since it opened its doors on June 1.

Inside a small building, staff are serving a need that is large and real.

"I was really really scared. I didn't want to have a baby right then or anything like that," said Brittany Higgs, who came to the center with her boyfriend, Jeremy George.

Many staff members and volunteers at the Republic Pregnancy Resource Center know that feeling.

"It its home with a lot of them because they were young when they had children, or they were in a situation where they needed assistance, and they didn't have anybody to turn to, and that's why we do what we do," said Scott Lowry, a board member for the Republic Pregnancy Resource Center.

The center offers hope and support through trained mentors, as well as education for expectant moms and dads.

"They have helped us a lot with preparing for the baby, and being able to care for the baby. Neither one of us had ever taken care of a baby," said George.

For every hour a client spends in a mentoring session or a lesson, she gets one dollar of "mommy money" to spend on any of the things in the baby boutique. For instance, one dollar could get buy a newborn baby onesie (one-piece outfit).

"I'm out of work right now, so this has been very helpful to have these resources available," said expectant mom Ashlee Love.

"We actually had nothing but the crib when we moved down here. We have all the clothes that we need, the bassinet we got from here, diapers," said Higgs.

The center is happy to be serving those needs said Executive Director Nicole Robinson.

"They're getting to feel good about themselves because they'e earning this stuff. It's not just being given to them," said Robinson.

Everyone hopes it will all lead to good parents and happy, healthy babies.

"I can't wait 'til he gets here!" said Higgs.

The Republic Pregnancy Resource Center is looking for more volunteers and mentors to help at the center. They're also always in need of monetary donations and donated baby items. Several churches are throwing it a baby shower on Tuesday evening, Sept. 15, at Calvary Baptist Church in Republic from 6-8, or you can take donations to the center Monday through Thursday from 9 to 4.

Republic Pregnancy Resource Center website:

For more information, click here.

Items always needed:
● Maternity Clothes
● Diapers (NB to 3)
● Wipes & Rash Ointment
● Onesies (NB to XL)
● Sleepers (SM, MED, LG)
● Infant Socks
● Baby Bath Items
● Blankets
● Crib Sheets
● New Baby Bottles
● Diaper Bags
● Nail Clippers
● Brushes
● Spoons, Bowls, Sippy Cups
● Pacifiers
● Baby Toys

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