WASHINGTON - Across the United States, approximately 2,750 pregnancy help centers offer life-affirming support to pregnant and parenting women in need. Some of these centers have been the targets of violence, vandalism, and an orchestrated campaign to malign their good names. In recognition of their contribution to the common good, and in observance of Pregnancy Help Appreciation Week (November 6-10), Bishop Michael F. Burbidge of Arlington, chairman of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ (USCCB) Committee on Pro-Life Activities, issued the following statement:
“Pregnant and parenting moms in need are among the most vulnerable people in our communities. When women in challenging circumstances do not know where else to turn, the loving staff and volunteers at pregnancy help centers embrace them with empathy and service. Pregnancy help centers across the United States provide a spectrum of care, resources, and material goods to support new mothers - from diapers and layettes, to babysitting and career services, to referrals for housing and food assistance, and personal mentorship and support. Many also provide certain medical services, including ultrasounds, prenatal and postnatal care. Often, there is nowhere else a mother in need can go for this kind of comprehensive assistance. The practical, loving service that pregnancy help centers offer extends far beyond the birth of the child, with relationships between mothers and help centers continuing for years.
“The U.S. bishops’ pro-life committee has consistently called for ‘radical solidarity’ with mothers in need. We commend pregnancy help centers for living this call of radical solidarity with selfless persistence and we encourage prayers for this lifesaving ministry.”