HAMMOND - Many parishes around the Diocese of Gary continue to offer assistance to women who may be experiencing an unplanned pregnancy. By hosting a baby shower event, women of the church can enjoy an afternoon of fellowship while the gifts they bring are given to organizations that provide direct assistance to new mothers in difficult situations.
Inside the parish hall at St. John Bosco in Hammond on April 19, tables were decorated in celebration of a new baby’s arrival, while several tables in the center of the room showcased a collection of baby clothes, diapers, blankets, bibs and more that would be given to the Women’s Care Center.
Judy Tarne, president of the Altar and Rosary Society, shared that the group has hosted a baby shower event for the past several years. The ladies have the opportunity to socialize and listen to a brief talk by staff from the Women’s Care Center, followed by food and games.
Tarne said she likes that the Altar and Rosary Society hosts the baby shower and invites members from the Women’s Care Center because it helps inform the community of the available resources in the area.
“The ladies have a whole routine at the Women's Care Center, and the items collected help replenish the stuff that they give out throughout the whole year,” she said. “They're always talking about women that they’ve talked to, counseled and encouraged. I think a lot of young women need that, whether they're married or not.”
Stephanie Herrera, director of WCC in Hammond, explained that the Women’s Care Center offers free pregnancy tests, medical-grade first-trimester ultrasounds and a variety of classes for women. She said the center deals with a lot of what she called happy parenting but acknowledged they also assist in many crisis pregnancy situations.
“Every woman who walks through our door, we treat them with love and kindness, regardless of what their thoughts are and what they are going through,” she said. “I will say the Holy Spirit is very much at our center because there are so many women who come in feeling one way and they leave feeling a totally different way.”
Herrera stated she believes that it is because of who they are and their relationship with God.
Counselor Alfreida Chalmers stressed the importance of the classes they provide, which can assist mothers with various aspects of their health. She added it's wonderful for the WCC to receive donated items from diocesan parishes that they can pass along to mothers who may need additional help during their pregnancy journeys. She stated that last year, the center in Hammond was able to provide support to more than 900 women.
“We have what we call a Crib Club,” she explained. “That way, if the women can’t afford anything, we give them coupons for going to a doctor’s appointment or other things that have to do with the pregnancy, and they can pick out whatever they want. That makes them feel like they are doing something to receive the items.”
Lisa Pinto, of Hammond, saw the baby shower event advertised in the parish bulletin on Easter and wanted to show her support. She admitted she didn’t know much about the Women’s Care Center. Upon hearing more about it, she said it was wonderful what they were doing to help new moms.
“I know there's a lot of single ladies, or maybe they've been married, where the guys aren't supportive,” she said. “It's definitely needed. A lot of people have problems financially.”
Pinto added that she was happy to be in a financial position where she could donate a few baby care items.
That same day, on the south side of Lake County, St. Matthias in Crown Point invited its parishioners to participate in a heartfelt baby shower celebration. In the joyful spirit of new beginnings and community, the church advertised the event with a special nod to St. Catherine of Siena, a doctor of the Church and patron saint of nurses and firefighters. Attendees brought gifts to lend a helping hand to local organizations, supporting mothers and their little ones.
In a few weeks, women of Our Lady Queen of Martyrs in Merrillville will gather on Thursday, May 7, at 6 p.m. inside Vamos Hall for its annual “Baby Shower and Pot Luck.” Everyone is asked to bring a side dish to share and a wrapped baby gift. The gifts will be opened at the shower and donated to the Women’s Care Center.
