The Appalachian Pregnancy Care Center, located at 193 Main Street, in Pikeville, has been established to offer services and support for women and teens facing the uncertainty of unplanned pregnancies. By making help and services available to those who need it, coupled with a sense of caring and compassion, the Center aims to offer a viable alternative to abortion.
Many pregnant women and teens choose abortion because they believe it is the only option for dealing with crisis pregnancies. In fact, other options are available, and one of the goals of the Center is to provide information about these options. Studies have shown that 90% of women who underwent an abortion would not have done so had they had access to positive alternatives.
Statistics illustrate the growing need for the type of services offered by the Center. 750,000 girls become pregnant each year. 31% of teenage girls become pregnant at least once before they turn the age of 20. Faced with raising a child on their own while attempting to attend school, along with a potential shortage of funds, many teens opt for abortion as a solution to what they see as a hopeless situation.
The Center intends to bring hope to persons facing these types of circumstances. The Center offers services, advice and spiritual assistance to women and teens who wish to make use of the Center. Information and advice on prenatal care as well as parenting will be available in order to assist young mothers in reaching their personal and professional goals. Additional services available at the Center will include free pregnancy testing, Christian counseling and post-abortion counseling through Biblical studies for both men and women.