Being a good parent requires a long list of life skills, such as planning, organization, nutrition, and financial literacy. This can be difficult for anyone in these turbulent times. However, when you’re a young woman who is facing an unintended pregnancy, the challenges can be even greater. That’s where the Dawn Centre steps in.
Founded by a local group of women who came together to support women those experiencing unintended pregnancies, the Dawn Centre has had several locations over the years. They support young moms in their plan of care to work towards physical, emotional, relational, and spiritual wellness. Currently located on Water Street in Cambridge, they were able to expand their services in 2020 to include ultrasound capabilities. Clients are referred by their doctor or a family member or they’re “often we’re at the top of their Google search,” said Joy, Client Services Coordinator at the Centre. The Dawn Centre aims to provide accurate information, relevant services, and caring support to the clients they serve. They offer unintended pregnancy support services, such as free pregnancy tests, pregnancy options support, pre-natal education, and support programs for both mothers and fathers.
Through a Kindred Credit Union Charitable Fund Grant, the Dawn Centre has been able to purchase a software program called BrightCourse, offering courses in a variety of areas such as pre-natal health, parenting, and financial literacy. “There’s even a program for fathers,” explained Birgit, Executive Director of the Dawn Centre. It’s an online subscription which allows the young mothers to access their learning wherever they are able to.
Many of the Dawn Centre’s clients struggle financially and don’t have much outside support. The BrightCourse financial literacy course provides the guidance the women need to make the best financial decisions for themselves and their children. “The women feel empowered to make small changes in order to create brighter futures,” explained Joy. Clients are teamed up with a support person who meets with them at the Centre each week for connection and lesson reviews. The added benefit of the online subscription is that clients who are not able to come into the Centre can have access to these valuable lessons at home, at a time convenient for them, with the support person touching base with them.
With each bit of program work, young moms can even earn “points” to spend on baby gear from the Centre’s Care Closet. Items that are donated by individuals and churches allow the moms to feel like they are working towards a goal. And the confidence that builds over time goes a long way in helping these young moms feel like they have the skills needed to be the best parents they can be. Kindred Credit Union is pleased to be a part of this success story!