Beyond Baby Clothes: Supporting our Moms

Shanda walked into our office visibly pregnant. There was no doubt. She was alone and scared. As she sat with one of our staff members, she was quiet, withdrawn, and reluctant to share her story. She was about to become a first-time mom, and had no idea what she was doing and no one to help her.

If you’ve ever had a conversation with Brianna, our social worker, you know how effortlessly she puts you at ease and makes you feel comfortable. It was no different for Shanda as she waited in Brianna’s office. Slowly, Shanda began to open up and share the immense anxiety that she was carrying as she faced delivering a baby. She had no crib for the baby to sleep in and no car seat in which to bring her baby home.

“I have no clue what to expect. I’m so scared.” Since Shanda was only two weeks from her due date, there wasn’t much time to help her. Our staff quickly juggled their schedules and made several phone calls. As Shanda sat in her office, Brianna submitted a car seat and crib referral; both of which, miraculously, arrived before the baby (normally these can take 6-8 weeks to arrive). One of our nurses scheduled a personal childbirth class just for Shanda, hoping to ease some of her anxiety. Shanda left the office that day with a bag of baby clothes, diapers and wipes and, more importantly, a support system to walk through this life change with her.

Since that day, her very first time at AlphaCare, Shanda has delivered a beautiful baby girl. She continues to be served by the AlphaCare staff. She is now attending Mom’s Group, getting support and camaraderie from other Mom’s, and taking advantage of ongoing AlphaCare support.

Shanda’s story could have been so different. But thanks to you, and the support you provide us through your prayers, donations and volunteer hours, her success story is just beginning.

For more information about how you can help us serve moms like Shanda, send us an email.