MEEKER I Pregnancy can be a time of tremendous joy. But when a pregnancy is unplanned, that joy can be overshadowed by anxiety. All expectant mothers face some anxiety during their pregnancies — health concerns, fears about labor and delivery, and worries about one’s adequacy as a parent are common. Add in financial pressure or troubled relationships and you have a recipe for crisis.
Krystle Dunton’s empathy for women experiencing unplanned or unexpected pregnancies triggered an idea, a way to provide help and reach out to women who find themselves facing an uncertain future. Dunton is the president of the board of directors for the New Eden Pregnancy Care Center.
The center will provide a safe, confidential place for moms and moms-to-be in crisis pregnancies. “Many of the women feel trapped by their circumstances and have little to no knowledge of their pregnancy options,” Dunton said.
A non-profit, non-denominational Christian organization, New Eden will provide free pregnancy tests and guidance by trained volunteers, as well as providing items like diapers and formula for emergency situations.
Saturday marks the center’s fundraising kick-off event. New Eden is hosting a benefit banquet Saturday, Jan. 8 at the school administration building in Meeker. Tickets for the deep pit beef dinner are available at Valley Hardware for $10 a plate, or $8 for a take-out box.
Individuals or groups interested in donating financially or donating baby items are encouraged to do so. Call Krystle Dunton at 878-3681 for more information.