New Location, Same Mission: Birthright of Nevada Keeps Growing

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Becoming a mom is one of the scariest and exciting times of a woman’s life. There are many different things that can go on during that time, and it’s vital to have a community around you to fill in any gaps. Thankfully, Vernon County and the surrounding area are blessed with an organization that is ready to do just that!

 Birthright of Nevada just recently moved from their location right off of the Nevada square to a larger building at 330 N Main (the former St. Mary’s School Building). If you have heard about the program, which is probable since it originally started in the mid-1980s, despite a time of having it’s doors closed in the early 2000s, they are becoming more and more of a resource to our community since reopening in 2013.

 First and foremost. What do they do?

According to Director Colleen Haberkorn, a brief overview is that they are here to “serve pregnant women and young families in Vernon County and surrounding areas. We work to provide support and resources to pregnant moms, aiding them to complete their pregnancies safely, and follow them through the first year after their baby’s birth.”

 Please note that the word at the front of the previous paragraph, “brief”, because this organization goes so much further than just handing out supplies. They are equipping young women and families beyond just the basics. They also have no residency requirements or financial restrictions. If you walk through their door and are in need of help, they are ready and all services are free of charge.

 A few things that they offer include pregnancy testing, monthly follow-up calls to pregnant moms, a Goodie Basket filled with essentials once the baby is born, maternity clothing, infant/toddler clothing, nursing supplies, blankets along with other basic baby needs. Their clients can also register for the El Dorado Springs Diaper Pantry, where they can receive up to 75 diapers or 50 pull-ups per month through the center, until their child is 2 ½ years old.

 There is also a scholarship program available up to $500 for moms going back to school. More information is available at the center for this program.

 Now that you have an understanding of what the program is and how important it is to the community, here are some options for you to help keep it going, so that they don’t ever have to turn someone away who needs their services.

 They are always accepting donations of new and/or gently used baby items. A few things that are essential to their services include: diaper wipes, NB size socks, sleepers and onesies, along with monetary donations to purchase any supplies that they need. Any donation of $100 or more qualifies for a Missouri State Tax Credit equal to 70% of the donation. Everyone wins!

 If you want a more hands-on option, they also offer volunteering opportunities at the center. You can contact them via the information below with any questions and to set up training.

 With the new center, Birthright of Nevada has seen a significant rise in the number of visits. This shows how important they are to our community and reiterates the need for members of the community to keep it running smoothly. They are hoping to continue to train more volunteers and expand their outreach efforts to ensure that no mom or family is lacking the essentials during such a pivotal moment in their lives.

If you want to learn more about Birthright of Nevada or how you can help, please reach out to them at #417-448-1771, email them at [email protected], or reach out through their Facebook page.

Written By: Katie Budd- a volunteer for the Main Steet Alliance.