Sometimes life can be full of challenges that we can’t always handle on our own, and sometimes we need some help. This past year in particular has been proof of that for many people. Thankfully, the Chattanooga area has many different resources to help women in a variety of situations.
Below is some information on resources that may help you or someone you know:
Catholic Charities Pregnancy Help Center
This is a wonderful organization that I have been blessed to do my internship with this summer. The main focus of this program is to “earn while you learn.” Participants attend classes or watch videos on a variety of subjects related to pregnancy, childbirth, and the baby and toddler years, and earn “baby bucks” for doing so, which can be redeemed for anything from diapers and wipes, to even big ticket items like strollers and cribs. Other services offered are pregnancy testing, non-judgmental and caring advice, and car seat checks. Volunteers are also always welcomed and needed, so if you are interested in that, contact them as well!
Women, Infant & Children Program (WIC)
I am sure that most people have heard of WIC. I feel like some people may avoid applying for WIC because they are embarrassed that they need assistance. I encourage those who might need extra help each month with food essentials to apply and check out the wonderful services WIC offers. According to their website, “WIC is a program that offers nutrition education, breastfeeding education and support, nutritious foods, and health referrals to women, infants, and children who qualify.” In addition to the assistance of getting essentials like milk, eggs, cereal, and yogurt, WIC also offer education and wonderful lactation consultants.
Hamilton County Family Justice Center
Domestic violence is something we hope and pray our loved ones never find themselves in. But if you or someone you know is a victim of domestic violence, the Family Justice Center is a wonderful resource that you should know about. I was lucky enough to tour their facility and learn about the help they offer. Their peaceful environment offers a welcoming safe haven for victims of abuse and they are able to get them the help they need whether it be setting them up at a shelter, connecting them with legal services, or offering counseling or medical services. They also help victims of elder abuse and sex trafficking.
Nurture the Next
Nurture the Next is another program I hadn’t heard about until recently. According to their website, “Nurture the Next helps Tennessee families build the skills and confidence to create a caring environment needed for the healthy development of their young children. We do this through in-home services, parent mentorship, educational classes and crisis support. Our services are free to families and confidential.”
Youth & Family Development
The Youth and Family Development is part of the city of Chattanooga and has many different areas of focus. Depending what you need, different departments offer education and early learning programs, recreation programs, and family empowerment programs to help low-to-moderate income families get back on their feet and become more self-sufficient. You can visit the link above to see more detail about the numerous programs and assistance they offer.
Chattanooga Area Food Bank
The Chattanooga Area Food Bank assures that people don’t go hungry. Those that are in need of emergency food, can use the tool on their website to find a partner agency near them or dial 211 and get a voucher for an emergency food box. The website also has the link to apply for SNAP benefits if you need longer term help. Chattanooga Area Food Bank is always looking for donations if you are not in need, but would like to bless others with help.
