According to research by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, one-third of all births in the United States are unintended. The report also notes that rates are often higher in Southern states.
For more than 20 years, Choices Resource Center has offered support to men and women facing unplanned pregnancies and related sexual issues. Located in Oak Ridge, Choices offers a host of services including:
- pregnancy tests and options counseling in a confidential setting
- accurate information and practical help to women in unplanned pregnancies
- ultrasounds through our medical clinic
- limited testing for sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) for males and females
- a 24-hour helpline
- a sexual integrity program for youth
- parenting classes (including material support)
- help for those struggling with previous pregnancy choices
All our services are free of charge and everyone is welcome. Pregnancy and STD testing can be performed any time the center is open—even without an appointment. Though we are sometimes able to perform ultrasounds for walk-in clients, it is best to call ahead to schedule an appointment.
Heart to Heart, our parenting class, meets on Monday evenings from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. and is open to mothers and fathers who are pregnant or have young children. Those who attend are able to earn “Baby Bucks” which they can use to purchase material items from our “Stork’s Nest” boutique, such as diapers and wipes. Topics vary from week to week, and Bible studies are also available.
Choices strives to offer unconditional love, accurate information, and support to enable men and women to make life-affirming choices for themselves and their children. For this reason, one of our primary objectives is to share the love of Jesus with those who are open and willing to hear. Though we do not force our clients to pray or hear a presentation of the Gospel message, we do make the offer. As a result, we have seen many come to a saving relationship with Jesus Christ, and for that we are grateful.
Choices Resource Center is located at 170 Raleigh Road, near the Grove Center Shopping Area. For more information, please contact us by phone at (865) 483-0099 or by e-mail info@choicesresource.com.
Dutchess Jones is the executive director of Choices Resource Center in Oak Ridge. For more information see their website at www.choicesresource.com.
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