For 35 years, Birthright of Windham has been a steadfast source of hope for women facing unplanned pregnancies, offering compassionate care rooted in Catholic moral teachings. In 2024 alone, the organization provided support to over 1,000 women and their babies, distributing essentials such as diapers, baby formula, clothing, and other necessities—all free of charge.
With a small team—just one director and two full-time volunteers, none of whom are paid—Birthright operates with remarkable efficiency on a modest annual budget of $40,000. And yet, the impact is anything but small.
This kind of hands-on support reflects the mission of national pro-life initiatives like the Knights of Columbus’ ASAP program—“Aid and Support After Pregnancy.” In just its first year, the program raised over $5 million to help mothers care for their newborns. Birthright of Windham embodies this mission at the local level, offering real-time, real-life help to families who need it most.
However, the rising cost of baby essentials and unexpected expenses—like a broken furnace in late 2024—have strained Birthright’s finances. Space heaters used during the repairs sent the electric bill soaring. While the landlord graciously covered the furnace replacement, the organization ended the year with a $5,000 shortfall, the first deficit in its 35-year history.
“The end of the year is usually our strongest fundraising season,” explained Darlene Wagner, director of Birthright, “but many of our regular donors were facing their own financial difficulties and weren’t able to give as they usually do.”
The result has put the organization several months behind on rent, and while the landlord has been patient, Wagner emphasized the urgency of catching up to ensure services continue uninterrupted. Birthright has responded by strengthening its development efforts to prevent future deficits.
To help Birthright regain financial stability, several local Knights of Columbus Councils are joining forces to host a Pasta Dinner Fundraiser:
When: Saturday, May 24, beginning at 5 PM
Where: St. Joseph Church, Willimantic
Tickets: $30 each
Keynote Speaker: Father Walter Nagle, Director of Pro-Life Ministry, Diocese of Norwich
Also Speaking: State Deputy Joseph Rahtelli, Connecticut Knights of Columbus
To purchase tickets, call Garry Beausoleil at 860-617-6082.
If you are unable to attend but would like to contribute, donations can be made by contacting Mike Romeo at 860-208-6723.
Together, we can ensure that Birthright continues to be a refuge of love, dignity, and life for women and children in need.
Article by Garry Beausoleil, member of St. James Council #2883 in Danielson
