The Central Alberta Pregnancy Care Centre based in Red Deer is planning to open a “satellite” facility in Olds in 2014.
Rita Fahlman, a member of the project's steering committee, said the centre is currently trying to secure a building in town for the satellite office and is looking at three potential sites.
The satellite office, she added, will service Olds and the surrounding area and will offer services to women that don't yet exist in the community.
Some of the services offered at the Red Deer centre to support those facing unexpected pregnancies include pregnancy tests, information about parenting, adoption and abortion, baby and maternity clothing and a 24-hour help line.
“We support women in their decisions around pregnancy,” Fahlman said. “Sometimes we find ourselves pregnant and we're not prepared for what's coming next. What we do is just give them education, options and then after they've made their decision, then we walk with them through those decisions.”
She said the centre conducted a survey of an area stretching from Bowden to Carstairs to Three Hills to Sundre that found a need does exist for such services in these communities.
A fundraising motorcycle ride in support of the centre will come to Olds' Centennial Park on Sept. 14 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Proceeds from the ride will go to the centre's budget, Fahlman said, out of which will come the funds for the Olds satellite office.
To register or donate to the ride, visit www.pregnancycare.ca or call 403-343-1611.
Donations will also be accepted at Centennial Park.
