Hope Pregnancy Center of Cape May County

An unplanned pregnancy can turn life upside down. Many physical and emotional changes take place that can cause fear, confusion and feelings of helplessness or isolation. And, often there's little or no support from one's family. If you or someone you know is in such a position, there is hope, and someone to turn to.

Hope Pregnancy Center is a ministry comprised of trained individuals who help those in a crisis pregnancy situation. A nonprofit organization, it was newly named in 1999 when two formerly independent crisis pregnancy centers, LifeGuard of Ocean City and Crisis Pregnancy Services of Cape May Court House, merged. They presently have two locations in Cape May County, one in Ocean City and the other in Rio Grande.

As a ministry, Hope Pregnancy volunteers help each mother-to-be make godly decisions, beginning with a commitment to see the pregnancy through, and ending with the choice between allowing adoption or choosing to rear the child. Life is precious. Hope believes that from the moment of conception you are a unique human being, ("I chose you before I formed you in the womb," Jeremiah 1:4).

For many, it's not an easy road, but Hope Pregnancy Center will help in every way, and all along the way-from emotional counseling to practical support.

During the pregnancy, they educate the mother in the things she's experiencing, and they encourage her to take good care of herself - not to smoke, drink or take drugs, and to eat more nutritiously.

While their Biblically-based counseling reaches out emotionally and spiritually, let's face it, many need physical help. Hope Pregnancy fills this need also, by giving practical assistance through maternity and infant clothing, furnishings and supplies. They also provide referrals for financial and housing assistance and to other community resources. Referrals for adoption are also available. Their support doesn't end with the birth of the child; it's ongoing, with valuable help and planning for the mother's and baby's future.