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June 06, 2018 | By Options Resource Center for Pregnancy Education & Counseling "New Life Options"

Baby Hand

Countless parents will agree: there are few things more exciting than preparing for a new baby.  However, for those who are unexpectedly expecting, the thought of being fully responsible for a new life can be overwhelming.

In Monongahela, the Options Resource Center for Pregnancy and Sexual Health, Education and Counseling (also referred to as “New Life Options”) provides mentoring programs that build the knowledge, parenting, and life skills of women and men from the beginning of the mother's pregnancy until the child is 2 years old.

Among its free and confidential services is an educational program that rewards clients for helping to prepare themselves for the many responsibilities of parenthood.

Through the Earn While You Learn program, moms and dads can work towards securing all the items they will need for their new arrivals and gain access to vital information that will help them to take care of themselves and baby.  The lesson plans can be customized to help each client with specific needs.

Earned Baby Boutique “dollars” can be exchanged for items like new and gently used baby clothes, blankets, diapers, formula, strollers, high chairs, and even car seats.

Elizabeth is just one client who has benefited from the Earn While You Learn program.  She stated, “New Life Options is an amazing center. Ever since I became a client, I have had nothing but encouragement and something to look forward to . . . I have learned so much about taking care of my daughter and myself, and the Baby Boutique is such a blessing for our daughter’s needs.”  Additionally, Elizabeth has formed a strong bond with the New Life Options mentors, who have inspired her to pursue a career in healthcare: “They have no idea how much they helped me gain more confidence as a parent.  They have impacted by decision to become a registered nurse . . . They have helped me to realize I can do it!”