What happens when that positive pregnancy test brings a wealth of worry? The idea of pregnancy can be overwhelming, and for some, a number of factors play into the decision of keeping their baby or terminating the pregnancy. At the PLC Health Clinic, we believe housing should not be one of those determining components.
A Guttmacher Institute study reported that the main reasons some women choose abortion are:
- interference with education
- caring for dependents and work
- the cost of caring for a baby
Now, more than ever, maternity homes are giving women the opportunity and support needed to help mothers choose life.
As a pro-life center, we aren’t just interested in stopping abortion, we work to empower women for success. Maternity homes such as The Langdyn House of PLC Health Clinic provide a safe and loving space for young moms to gain confidence in their ability to do more than they ever thought possible. Free housing is a step in the right direction, but the availability of support, care, and programs that teach life skills makes the difference between a shelter and a maternity home. The goal is to not only provide a place of refuge, but to make an impact that will improve the life of the mother and the baby long-term.
Maternity homes offer a host of benefits including;
1- access to prenatal care
2- emotional support
3- mental health aid
4- parenting education
5- life skills training
6- adoption connections and more
It is also proven that maternity houses help to prevent pregnancy complications and improve the overall health of pregnant women and their children. Educating young new moms on how to recognize postpartum depression, being available to answer any questions, teaching them what to do when their child is sick, and having mentors available 24/7 make a new mom feel safe and capable of saying “YES!” to life.
Through structure and goal-setting, women can learn the skills necessary for successful motherhood and independent living while managing being a new mom and working or going to school. At The Langdyn House women will learn time management and how to set achievable goals for themselves. They will also learn how to work together to maintain a home that’s safe, clean, and organized for their family. Aside from learning how to be a single parent, they learn how to live in community with others. Communication, conflict resolution, and emotional intelligence are just a few of the skills they will learn through classes and other community support networks. We believe that being a part of the community itself is vital to their well-being. Opportunities to give back and be a part of activities in the community will help them see beyond themselves and care for others.
Another area that not all maternity homes utilize is the ability to speak truth into the residents' hearts and minds. As a faith-based center, we have the opportunity to pray with and for them, to lead Bible studies and devotions, and access to church worship services weekly. Because the young women will be required to attend one Christian worship service each week, we can invest in their spiritual life on a greater scale. The fact is, God is vital to our wholeness, without him there is always something missing!
Maternity homes aren’t just a shelter to find rest or a way to avoid abortions, but rather a home to find wholeness, wisdom, and truth. A place where mothers can gain new skills, find mentors, and get help as they start this new journey into motherhood while also rescuing a precious child of God. We are here to love and support them as they take on the challenges of parenting their blessings. If you or someone you know is expecting or has a newborn child and is in need of housing, contact the PLC Health Clinic at or call 419.238.9177.
* Sources available upon request.
