Trekking the Difficult Journey 2023 YEAR IN REVIEW
Dear Friends, Looking back on five years at Pregnancy Aid Clinic, I marvel at the work that’s been done to affirm life and walk with families. Our valued donors, staff, volunteers, and parish communities have stepped up in spades in tumultuous times—climbing over hills of divisiveness and distractions to clear a path for life. Though worn out with the length of your journey, you never said, “It is hopeless.” You found your strength revived, and so you did not weaken. —Isaiah 57:10 Our clients’ journeys are not easy, but never hopeless. As PAC’s services and programs have grown, our relationships with women and families have deepened. A family is built on love, mutual respect, and partnership in meeting people where they are. Thank you and Farewell The way forward in 2024 It is with great enthusiasm that I step into the role of Executive Director at Pregnancy Aid Clinic. Guided by faith and driven by compassion, I am honored to serve and lead this beloved organization. I want to express my sincere gratitude for the warm reception I have received from the incredible staff, volunteers, and supporters. From the moment I stepped through the doors at Pregnancy Aid Clinic, I sensed the dedication and passion that define this remarkable organization. I am deeply inspired by the values that define PAC: a commitment to the sanctity of life, a dedication to supporting women and families in crisis, a community bound by compassion, and a shared mission of uplifting one I am blessed, grateful, and extraordinarily hopeful for the future of the Clinic and the community we serve. Thank you for supporting me, and more importantly, thank you for welcoming Sarah Weikert to the helm of Pregnancy Aid Clinic! Sarah and all of you will all stay in my prayers throughout 2024 and beyond. For Life, Lisa Regan another. Together, we understand and have an unwavering belief in the transformative power of hope. The sanctity of life is not just a principle; it is the heartbeat that guides our every endeavor. As we commemorate 40 years of impact, our focus remains steadfast on the whole person, recognizing that support goes beyond the moment of crisis. The countless stories of women and men who have found solace, guidance, and a renewed sense of purpose through our comprehensive services are simply awe-inspiring. Together, we will strive to enhance and expand our programs and services, ensuring that we are meeting the diverse needs of those who seek our assistance. Because of you, lives are being nurtured, transformed, and saved. Thank you. I look forward to meeting each of you in the coming days and months and sharing in the collective journey of love, support, and hope. Together for Life, Sarah Weikert
With the overturning of Roe v. Wade, states across the country are battling legal appeals, and some are even facing the reality of increased abortions. This increase, due to greater accessibility of the abortion pill and a push for abortion tourism, clearly tells the story of women in crisis making rushed, traumatic life-ending decisions. While PAC is grateful that Georgia and other life states have more strict abortion policies, one unexpected result is that women facing unplanned pregnancies have less time to consider life-affirming options and feel confused and overwhelmed. In response, PAC has learned to pivot using medical technology, including early pregnancy tests and ultrasounds to detect heartbeats and speak the truth about life in the womb. Looking ahead, PAC will continue to be the hands and feet of Christ, not only protecting life in the womb but also ensuring women, men, and families have the resources, tools, and community support necessary to survive and thrive. Together, we will not just walk the difficult journey of unplanned pregnancy but will persevere and ultimately reach the summit in the fight for the sanctity of LIFE! NAVIGATING POST-ROE Facing Roadblocks Client E is a young mother of two who is expecting her third child. Due to complications, she was confined to bed rest and fell behind on her rent. Facing eviction, she reached out to PAC and was approved for Year of Hope assistance. Although she was grateful for the help, as her pregnancy continued, she faced mounting bills and soon again faced eviction. Without a job, a car, or family support and at a crossroads, this vulnerable mother needs the support of PAC to help her continue to fight for herself and her family. Serving PAC Clients
PAC’s Fertility Education and Medical Management (FEMM) certified educator, Mary Grace Germain, spoke at the Georgia Tech Catholic Center in October about FEMM and Natural Family Planning (NFP). Here’s what some of the students had to say: PAC’s fertility awareness program offers women a deeper understanding of the design of their bodies and reproductive systems. Based on Fertility Education and Medical Management (FEMM) principles, the program arms women with information to help care for their bodies and provide natural options for family planning. Empowered Students React to Fertility Education The College Checkpoint PAC is Leading the Way in Fertility Education “I went to the event because I was interested in learning more about NFP, but I was not sure exactly what to expect or what I would get out of it. The talk ended up being extremely informative and insightful. There was an abundance of practical information that was shared with us about women’s bodies, but I think the most important thing I left the talk with was the feeling of empowerment from understanding the intricacies and precision of my body and women’s bodies.” “NFP was very interesting to learn about and helped me see the connection between spirituality, the way we are made, and also the science behind it.”
Client L and his longtime girlfriend returned to PAC for pregnancy confirmation after her initial test was negative. With a positive pregnancy test in hand, client L and his girlfriend faced some tough decisions and challenging times ahead. Although excited about parenting, they are very young, have been living together with his family for years, and are not financially independent. Client L’s girlfriend does not work, nor does she plan to work during her pregnancy. He is working but not at a job that pays the bills or can provide for a future family. Andre White, PAC’s Fatherhood Advocate, met Fathers Leading the Way Empowered Fathers Leading Strong Families Pregnancy Aid Clinic’s Fatherhood program offers support and learning opportunities for fathers-to-be. Some areas of focus for the program are spirituality, childcare and child rearing, career and job skills, and leadership. The goal of this program, led by Andre White, is to help men lead and protect their families, become present and involved fathers, and strengthen their life skills. with Client L to assess his situation and provide some guidance. Client L stated he loved his girlfriend but was distracted and not ready for the big responsibility ahead. Andre provided Client L with career guidance and resources and suggested he begin taking Fatherhood classes at PAC to earn Baby Bucks for diapers and baby supplies. He also encouraged the father-to-be to look at other career choices that would support a plan for moving out and raising his family independently. Andre will be mentoring Client L throughout the next nine months and afterwards, to help him stay on track and make good decisions. Advancing Fatherhood
The Healing Journey of PATH PATH (Post Abortion Treatment & Healing) is anticipating another twelve months of God’s grace and healing as we continue to serve those who have been wounded by abortion. Since the fall of Roe, the landscape of abortion has changed, and we at PATH have had to navigate the many challenges of this “new normal” to meet the needs of our clients. In years past, clients who contacted PATH were those who had experienced surgical abortions years ago and finally had the courage to come forward for healing. Currently, we are seeing a significant increase in the use of chemical abortion (also called at-home pill, medical, RU-486, or self-managed abortion). We’ve gone from mechanical warfare to chemical warfare against the unborn. Looking back at 2023, PATH served 38 clients through abortion recovery Bible Studies, Rachel’s Vineyard Retreats, and one-on-one mentorships. All programs we offer are designed to meet each client where they are on their healing journey. Additionally, PATH welcomed the opportunity to educate and increase awareness and understanding in the community about abortion and its consequences. “This was the year of education!!” said PATH’s Administrative Director, Trinnie Siegel. In 2024, our goal is to continue offering healing to those hurting from abortion so they can experience God’s compassion, love, forgiveness, and mercy. These beautiful moments happen when clients release their wounds and allow Jesus to step in and heal them from the inside out. Many of our past participants return to PATH and become “wounded healers” to help others still suffering. They are proof of God’s amazing, transforming power and are truly the heartbeat of our ministry. Last year, we had 29 facilitators volunteering with PATH in various capacities, logging nearly 1500 volunteer hours! Thank you for continuing to help us fulfill our Mission. We will do this, one soul at a time, with your help and prayers. God bless you! —Liz Youngs PATH Program Director My pill abortion was some of the worst pain I’ve ever felt. I felt fine emotionally when I made the decision, but now I’m feeling regret. I’m having a really hard time. I don’t know what to do. I’m struggling, and I really need to talk to someone. PATH recognizes there is a difference between those who recently had a chemical abortion and those who had a surgical abortion. Chemical abortions are so different from surgical abortions, as they are selfmanaged abortions, usually at home. Many who have had chemical abortions reach out to PATH a few days or weeks after their abortion, and we need to be equipped to meet their immediate physical, emotional, and spiritual needs. Here’s one example: Chemical vs. Surgical Abortion
Searching for Hope Interstate Abortions More than Double Client J chose abortion years ago, and now pregnant again, did not want to go down that same road. Since the father of her baby was in jail, she was afraid of carrying and raising her baby alone. Having very little financial support, she felt her only option was abortion. Client J reached out to PAC and was able to meet with an advocate and have an ultrasound. The moment she saw her baby’s heartbeat, she chose life. Working only 3 days a week and behind on rent, she faced eviction. Through PAC’s Year of Hope program, PAC paid her rent and eviction fees, helping her gain stability and clarity. Challenges remain, and the road ahead will be rough, but client J is now participating in both PAC sponsored financial empowerment and parenting classes learning skills to build a better future for herself and for her family. Abortion Tourism According to data from the Guttmacher Institute, after more than 20 states enacted pro-life legislation on the heels of the Supreme Court’s reversal of Roe v. Wade, women are traveling across state lines seeking abortion. The percentage of women traveling interstate to receive an abortion nearly doubled in the first six months of 2023. The report also estimates that the total number of out-of-state abortions jumped from about 9% of all abortions to about 17%. The good news is that more than 30 states have some sort of restriction on abortion in place, and 32,000 lives have been saved. Although the political and cultural environments are not in our favor, we are encouraged to see the Supreme Court agree to hear a case challenging the FDA’s approval of mifepristone, one of two drugs used in a chemical abortion. At PAC we serve the needs of ALL women, whether they are caught in the political and cultural crossfire or not. Our clinics lovingly encourage life-giving options and compassionately stand with those who have been wounded by abortion. Through the generosity of our donors, PAC offers an oasis of support to those who are confused, scared, and hurting by providing everything from medical and advocacy services to wraparound support ensuring there is food on the table and a roof over their heads. With a national election upon us, we are hopeful that more states will recognize the dignity of all human life and work together to address this human rights struggle.
The Hazardous Road Ahead Along with her husband and five-year-old son, client D arrived in the US seeking asylum. Navigating numerous difficulties, including financial constraints, limited access to resources, a language barrier, and a lack of stable housing, client D forged her way with the help of PAC’s Year of Hope program. After meeting with a PAC advocate during a REACH (Resource Education and Community Helping Hands) appointment, client D received assistance with rent and utilities, referrals to community resources, and meals and gifts for her family. Unfortunately, the family was surprised when their baby girl was born 4 weeks early and at just 4 lbs, creating even more uncertainty and complications for this vulnerable and at-risk family. But with client D’s aspirations and determination to become a certified nursing assistant some day, we pray she will find her way. PAC has also provided counseling and connections to enable client D’s husband to seek employment to provide for his family. PAC will continue to be there to guide and support them. The Journey Leading to the Year of Hope Year of Hope Program Abundant challenges were the hallmark of 2023. Our clients’ stories were marked by homelessness, domestic violence, financial stress, medical complications, and mental health issues. We also saw childcare costs on the rise and families facing severe food insecurity. PAC responded to this crisis with the Year of Hope program (YOH). PAC’s YOH program, in conjunction with St. Vincent de Paul Georgia and Catholic Charities Atlanta, case managed over 150 clients. PAC identified 34 clients who would benefit from wraparound services through their pregnancy up to a year after birth and provided financial support. This program is PAC’s commitment to providing basic needs for our most vulnerable clients. 151 clients case-managed 34 clients funded by PAC $42,527 in financial assistance Rent & Fees 64.6% Extended Stay 13.6% Transportation 12.6% Utilities 8.2%
Client B came to PAC in March seeking a pregnancy test. The moment her pregnancy was confirmed, she became overwhelmed and emotional. She’d had an abortion 10 years earlier, at just 21, and it haunted her every day. In fact, Client B was adopted, and the thought of her mother nearly aborting her made her feel vulnerable. She certainly did not want to face another abortion. Client B had a complicated life; bad choices led to convictions on her record, and she had recently become a victim of domestic violence by the father of her unborn child. Her choices were making life difficult for her, and finding a job and stable housing was even more challenging. Client B’s situation was very messy, as she was Nurturing Parenting 3 series Life Skills (Spanish & English) 2 series FEMM 1 series Fatherhood 1 series Faith-based 1 series With over 300 classes every year, PAC offers a plethora of opportunities for clients to learn parenting, faith, and life skills. Some of the classes offered in 4Q 2023 included Understanding and Handling Stress, Marriage and Relationships, Fertility and Hormonal Wellness, and Wisdom and Faith. PAC is blessed to have Courtney Cook as the Director of Education; she is creative, handson, and exceptionally knowledgeable and experienced. To top it off, she is a birth mother with a strong passion for the lifegiving options offered at PAC. At every appointment, PAC advocates discuss with clients their Godgiven dignity and worth, healthy dating and relationships, the dangers of STIs, and maternal health and nutrition. Parenting Class Topics at PAC The Unpredictable Road Ahead two months behind on rent and had car issues that threatened her ability to work. Throughout her pregnancy, she cobbled together resources, including an SOS car repair from the local Knights of Columbus council (see photo above), just to make ends meet. Client B’s baby was born in June, and after five months of advocacy, case management, resource provision, and vocational support, client B is living a more stable life with her baby. Though she received considerable support from both PAC and St. Vincent DePaul, she knows that staying connected to community resources is important to ensure her ongoing fiscal viability, enabling her to make a generational shift for life! Parenting and Beyond Total Number of students: 198 Total Number of education hours: 1995 Total Number of education hours for Fertility/FEMM: 188 Fatherhood: 72 Faith-Based: 619 2023 Updates
Because of you, Hearts are Changed and Lives are Saved Over the years, I have come to believe that to be truly Catholic, you need to be pro-life. I love supporting an organization that is face-to-face with vulnerable women who are in need of so much support. PAC is my go-to organization for protecting and transforming lives. —Liz White, PAC donor Neil and Carolyn Johnson Jim and Karen Sheehan Alex and Sue Kitchin Matthew Beringer Catholic Foundation of North Georgia Kelly Loeffler St. Stephen the Martyr Catholic Church Matt and Beth Allen Ellen Cifreo Sharon Harrison Our Lady of the Assumption Catholic Church Holy Redeemer Catholic School Knights of Columbus Council #660 Tim and Catherine Doyle Jeff Chalovich Kenneth and Nancy Millspaugh St. Benedict Catholic Church Christ Our King and Savior Catholic Church Knights of Columbus Council #8972 Brian and Lisa Dooling Knights of Columbus Council #13457 Atlanta Mortgage Advisors Sergio and Angela Pausa Al Colcombe Karen Klinkman Michael and Carol Aquino Gracemarie Bonwit Edmond and Julie Burke Donald and Marilyn Keough Foundation Lorraine Helbling Isabel Lee Charles and Margaret Martin Daniel and Karen O’Hara William and Allison Potter Chris and Linda Scharnhorst The Order of Malta Archdiocese of Atlanta Cathedral of Christ the King Bill and Bardeen Dunphy St. Peter Chanel Catholic Church Liz White Anonymous Donor David and Stacy Palmer Could You Be Loved Anonymous Donor Chris and Ashley Stenglein Frank Sullivan Bill and Judy Vogel Rick and Ann Marie Walker Van and Lorraine Lane St. Philip Benizi Catholic Church Joseph Gilroy Mitch and Rosanna Bernet John and Angela Tucker Ed and Margaret Delise Knights of Columbus Council #8376 David and Carolyn McGill TJ and Sherri McCaustland Catherine Weaver Holy Spirit Catholic Church Knights of Columbus Council #12000 St. Lawrence Catholic Church Daniel and Queenie Ross John and Victoria Baus Knights of Columbus Council #11402 Tripp and Kelly O'Connor Patrick and Catherine Runge Jordan and Lillian Ray Perry and Samantha Young Chuck and Brenda Sliker James and Monica Kaveney Dan and Rose Anne Hawes Mark and Anne Mattus Don and Karen Beringer Catholic Church of St. Ann Thomas and Leslie Curran Bob and Louise Davis Matthew Dwyer Michael Hubbard Kevin and Elizabeth Keysar 2023 Top Donors Richard Fuller Chris and Tracy Giglio Shawn and Patricia Kowalewski Orlando and Michelle Ojeda Chris and Beth Prangley Deacon Gary and Liz Schantz Knights of Columbus Council #12942 Christopher and Eleanor Smith Catholic Church of the Transfiguration KOC Charities of Georgia The Williams Realty Team Michael Tigue Forrest and Christine Ainsworth Kyle and Louisa Hadley Bill and Mary Moon Mariah Avant Patricia Hene Deacon Norm and Barbara Keller Don and Scarlett Ordner Jennifer Wandor Mark and Sandy Ryan William and Terry Hartman Ted and Cathy Zitelli Robert Muenkel Kim and Laura Bleekrode Kasha Kultys Bob and Nancy Nadolski Barbara Nye St. Ann Council of Catholic Women Michael Esposito and Ann Olsen Daniel and Ana Payne James and Carol Sacca Michael and Jane Smith Warren and Toni Stoughton Courtney Loquasto Frank Mess Our Lady of the Mountains Catholic Church Matthew and Laura Young Louis Casal Kevin and Barbara Chartier Deacon Ben Gross Mary Baus Mike Slovensky AJ and Sara Alix Cindy Garcia St. Catherine of Siena Catholic Church Daniel and Amy McMorrow Thomas and Gabrielle Johnson Mary Our Queen Catholic Church Michael and Rosemary Re Andrew and Jamie Oreffice Adage Capital Management Susan Abballe Robert and Phyllis Duvall Joseph and Krista Ferguson
Brad and Joanne Blakey Kevin and Maureen Horgan Chuck Lanford Point to Point Forensics Tom and Lisa Regan St. Brigid Catholic Church Mark and Natalie Uebelacker Deacon Jim and Kathy Wolf Elena Huston George and Ellen Burnett Kent and Jayne Hammond Glen and Theresa Kinzly Paul and Ann Bataillon Fr. Neil Dhabliwala Knights of Columbus Council #13161 Zachary and Kristin Sparks Fred and June Isaf James Dahlquist Ryan and Lauren Malone Dale and Diane Boylston Norbert and Barbara Braza Ron and Jeanette Cobb Dan and Patty Decraene Raymond and Jillian Giornelli Rosemary Hosey Knights of Columbus Council #13217 Kevin and Cherlye Kuntz Jim and Maryann Mathews Joseph Overbeck Susan Pelchat Jennifer Praser Maria Ruch Joselyn Schutz June Webb Mark and Marisa Yanta Knights of Columbus Council #6532 Viet Pham Catholic Church of Saint Monica Jake and Natalie Schirra Andrew and Blair Gowasack Todd and Leslie Bianchi Matt and Heather Griffin Good Shepherd Catholic Church John Harris Dave and Tonia Lichtenwalner Arlene Liebl St. John the Baptist Hybrid School Mark White Damian and Jessica Dyckman John and Sylvia Feenaghty Chris Fraser St. Vincent De Paul Catholic Church Geoffery and Megan Yovanovic Julius and Amy Taylor Berwick Babin James and Denise Dale Mark and Angie Doxtader Rex Elliott Elaine Escher LPL Financial Tom and Peggy McBrayer David McLaughlin Laura Mongioi Yvette Ravry Deacon Stan and Debbie Stewart Deacon Brad and Helen Young Mary Ann Gridley PAC Board of Directors Deacon Gary Schantz, Chairman, Deacon Jim Wolf, Vice Charman, Tim Doyle, Treasurer, Chuck Sliker, Secretary, Fr. Neil Dhabliwala, Terry Hartman, Jessica C. Slovensky, Christine Trovato, Mark McMullen, William Llop, Chairman Emeritus Vijay and Leslie Pinto Knights of Columbus Council #11458 Nicole Llewellyn Bill and Amy O' Donoghue Sydney Gleason Knights of Columbus Council #11768 Daniel Kester Paul Schlitz Russell and Kira Valence Michael and Mary Murray Kristen Piatak Tim and Mary Stella Aucoin Lawrence and Monique Davis Bernadette Davy Deacon Mark and Aileen Friedlein Michael and Samantha Trocquet Richard Majeste John and Jillian Bowen Matthew and Lori Gries Alison Powers Ron and Marie Puchalski Gil and Judy Bullard Stephen and Ellen Cocks Lisle Cormier Christopher and Laura Davis Kevin and Tracy Edmonston Benjamin and Desiree Figer Gail Grimes Knights of Columbus Council #6517 Arron and Kristi Kochanowicz Bruce and Delina Malinoff Mark McMullen Peter and Jean Moody Jerry and Laura Nix Michael and Jessica O'Brien Pittsburgh Foundation Kyle and Anne Porter Gilbert Puffer Anthony Rozier Kevin Shannon Hope Thatcher Evelyn Whalen Anthony and Robin Yezzi Fr. Kevin Peek Steve Eiswerth Donald and Rosemary Schleicher John and Arlene Gannon John and Marianne Ledvina Christopher Riley Knights of Columbus Council #14625 Michael and Susan Petrik Milton and Beverly Shlapak Priscilla Aloyo Eric Edstrom Ralph and Gina Trujillo Anthony and Jo Ziegler James and Mary Windon Justin Castile David Robertson Kiersten Falcetti Tina Block Deacon Gerry and Sally Kazin Holly Schneider Pamela Privette James Lanier Joseph Long John Mosher Andrew Renuart Charles Schendi Diana Williams Adrienne Dean Laura Gonzales Erin Duncan Marian Spencer James and Stacey Feeney Kateri Abernathy Nathan and Sara Flood Dan and Amy Hart Patti Johnson Robert and Cindy Laarhoven Mark and Amy Metzger Michele Terranova Peter and Mary Margaret Thomas Doug and Adriana Berry Edgar and Brittany Alverson Deacon Chris and Denise Andronaco Ken and Cathi Athaide Raymond Bell Jose Bellido Wayne and Judy Book Patrick and Kathleen Busch Columbiettes Council #9923 Philip Cote Jr. Lawrence and Tammy Cruz Thomas and Lisa Eaton Nancy Fisher Todd and Allison Harke Tim Huff Allen and Anita Hunt George and Alice Kalafut Abe and Julie Kassis Knights of Columbus Council #12826 Joseph and Susanne Krehel James and Diane Kucia Bob Lawless Kenneth and Virginia Lynch Ed Matejick Gregory and Victoria McKenna Robert Milford Jayne Ann Milling Mike and Debbi Molletta Stephanie O'Rourke David and Colleen O'Shaughnessey Stephen Petrany Paula Refi George and Mary Rice Charles and Susan Riepenhoff William Sadler Saint Barnabas Anglican Church Brian and Cathy Schneider Wyatt Schupbach John and Kathryn Seggerson Francis and Julie Shappard Nicholas and Jacqueline Shepherd St. Brigid Catholic Church Michael and Sally Stapleton Christopher and Shari Ulrich Eduardo and Veronica Valdes Roger and Tina Vernier Christopher and Claudia Vigil Fr. Joe Wagner Ron and Kelly Williams John and Kathy Zamer
Pregnancy Aid Clinic PO Box 92 Roswell, GA 30077 Operating from the Catholic belief in the sanctity of life, PAC compassionately delivers services and programs created to lift up women, men and families during moments of uncertainty or grief, through a journey designed to reveal their own dignity and claim their own future. Our mission Scan code to learn more about PAC.