Encana supports Pregnancy Resource Center
Free services empower and educate first time parents in Sublette County
by Encana-Pregnancy Resource Center media release
December 21, 2010
To meet the demand of the growing Client Services Program in Sublette County, Encana Oil & Gas (USA) Inc. granted the Pregnancy Resource Center (PRC) $5,000. The Client Services Program offers an innovative approach to empower families facing an unplanned or first-time pregnancy.
"Decisions regarding life, health and relationships can be very difficult," said Randy Teeuwen, Encana community relations advisor. "Through education, counseling and compassionate care, the PRC helps restore and enable young mothers when they need it the most. We are honored to join the PRC in their quest to provide new parents with effective parenting skills that improve family wellness and promote self-sustainability."
With a new office aiding Big Piney and Marbleton, service has increased. This year, the PRC has served close to 100 adults, children and newborns, provided 41 pregnancy tests, welcomed 15 newborns, and provided 153 prenatal and parenting education classes.
According to Heidi Dickerson, PRC executive director, the Center anticipates continued growth in 2011. "Next year we’ll be giving STD education and pregnancy awareness presentations to students at Pinedale High School. We also have eight expecting clients that are due from January to July. Encana’s support ensures that services will be available next year."
The PRC also provides peer counseling and mentoring, material assistance and support for pregnancy loss. The "Earn While You Learn" class allows parents to earn credits that can be redeemed for materials like maternity and baby clothes, blankets, diapers, formula and other supplies. All services are free of charge.
Since its inception last year, the PRC has helped 239 individuals. Often clients prefer to remain anonymous, but have expressed their gratitude of the classes ("The class has helped very much in how I interact and parent my children."), the instructors, ("They’re knowledgeable about the materials presented.") and the Center itself, ("The Center felt safe and comfortable.").
A committed supporter of programs that promote health and wellness, Encana has contributed more than $30,000 to the PRC. "Encana’s support has been vital in implementing our program," said Dickerson. "Their contribution provides continued sustainability to serve the growing needs of our community."
|
