16 and Pregnant; Pregnant Teens in Crisis

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**We are always looking at new ways to create more programs that will impact the lives of teens that find themselves in a crisis situation.** Read on to find out what a valuable program we offer to our community. Without us many of these girls would end up at a homeless shelter with no support or guidance. The Bethesda Centre is a residential group home that provides housing, counselling and support to teenage girls during their pregnancy and after the birth of their babies. At Bethesda the expecting mothers live in a supportive and positive residential environment where growth, empowerment, and independence are nurtured. We provide an on-site, fully credited, high school program where the girls are able to continue their education while also learning how to care for and nurture their babies. The Bethesda Centre also encompasses a Second Stage, Independent Living apartment and a fully licenesd Childcare Centre. Bethesda incorporates an in-house school and offers a variety of Life Skills and Parenting Skills programs. They work in collaboration with a number of local partners to equip the moms to be valuable contributing members of our community. Upon completion of the Bethesda Program each girl as the option to move into a self-contined aprtment where she is responsible for all daily chores and activities (i.e. grocery shopping, cleaning, etc) Cantara residents may stay in the program for up to two years. While the mothers are largely independent, Bethesda staff are available to help and supprt them and their babies in emergency situations. Cantara Childcare is a non-profit licensed childcare centre. We provide a safe, warm, and secure atmosphere where children develop independence and a positive sense of self and the world around them. We strive to be culturally diverse and ensure that every child and every family feels included and part of our family. Resident Testimonials: "If you need help, ask for it. It doesn't mean that you are weak. By doing that, you will grow as a person and remember that every obstacle is just a stepping stone to where you are headed in life!" Alex Bethesda is "a great help for me and they are amazing people. they give me advice and help me with things that I'm not certain about" Renee "...I learned to be independent, learned money managing, responsibility and they are a great support for the big step in moving out" Michelle