Building Bridges: Connecting our Moms to the Resources They Need

For many of the AlphaCare moms it’s difficult to access the necessary resources that could enable a safe and healthy pregnancy. Often these moms aren’t even aware of existing programs that would make a positive impact on them (and the choice to carry their baby to term). They need support–someone to come alongside them, to teach them about their options, and to connect them with these resources.

Vanessa, a sixteen-year-old expectant mother, was completely disconnected from any support. Successfully navigating all of her appointments while juggling school and other responsibilities became increasingly difficult (especially without a cell or home phone!). Her appointment reminders could not be received without a phone, so she became more and more isolated–left to “pull off” a pregnancy all on her own–until she came to AlphaCare.

Vanessa’s appointments with our AlphaCare staff became a lifeline. Since she had no phone, email became our primary method of communication with her. Because she only had limited access to email, it was difficult for her to schedule appointments with other support programs. AlphaCare was able to step in and work with Vanessa to schedule her prenatal appointments while she was in the office. Consequently, the hospital where Vanessa attended prenatal appointments began using AlphaCare’s office phone number as her primary contact. Each time they called to remind her of appointments, we emailed her the message (or reminded her in person).

One support program that Vanessa was enrolled in contacted AlphaCare when they could not reach her for more than a month. During one of Vanessa’s appointments at the AlphaCare offices, we were able to call that support program and re-enroll her so that she could continue taking advantage of their services.

At AlphaCare, we know the significance of being a bridge for Vanessa–connecting her with vital resources and support programs in the Philadelphia area. We can’t do everything, but we are eager and willing to go the extra mile to prepare Vanessa to be the best new mom she can be.