This past Veterans Day, Council 14209 of the Knights of Columbus, at the St. Thomas Aquinas Church at the University of Connecticut, purchased a new ultrasound machine to allow clients to view their unborn baby.

Caring Families is a 501 (c) 3 non-profit that provides help and support to women who are dealing with pregnancy- related issues. They provide pregnancy testing, ultrasounds, parenting education, material support such as diapers and cribs, as well as connecting our clients with local community referrals for needs like healthcare, housing and other relevant social services.

They operate the Women's Center of Eastern Connecticut, located in Willimantic, and Mobile Care van. Every woman should feel loved and supported during an unexpected pregnancy and through the work at Women's Center of Eastern Connecticut and Mobile Care, families are loved and are not alone. All services are free of charge to their clients.

Nurse Sonographer, Lorri Valle, indicated that the new GE Lobgiq V2 Ultrasound System provides a clear picture of the baby and also allows them to project the image from the ultrasound to a screen on the wall so the clients can watch their baby in the mother's womb.

Carl A. Anderson, the Supreme Knight, sent Council 14209 a letter in which he said, "Ultrasound technology opens a window into the womb and dramatically shows the humanity of the unborn, even to the doubting eyes of those who may not have previously shared our regard for the sanctity of unborn life. The Supreme Council is therefore pleased to partner with St. Thomas Aquinas Council 14209 in purchasing this powerful tool which we hope and pray will help save many lives through the good work of Caring Families Pregnancy Services."

The Women's Center is open Tuesdays 10-4pm and Thursdays 10-6pm, and by appointment on Mondays. To learn more visit womenscenterec.com. Our Mobile Care Van travels the state and is in different locations just about every day. To see a schedule and learn more visit gomobilect.com.

By Anthony Kotula