Client Story 3

Janet

In March of 2010 I found myself here in London on my own, pregnant, homeless, and broke due to domestic violence.  I was introduced to the LPFSC through a friend who attended their weekly parenting group, GRIP.

Fast forward to March 2018 I found myself in London again, pregnant and feeling like I needed to reach back out for support from the Centre and I was welcomed with open arms. Things are a lot different in my life compared to my last visit, they are very positive, I remarried and am happy but he lives in another country so for my pregnancy and the first 9 months of my son’s life I am on my own to care for two kids-which can be stressful.

During this time, I had two main concerns; the first being where my daughter was going to go when I went into labour and the second being, who was going to be with me during my labour/delivery? The Centre connected me to an organization called Safe Families so my daughter could stay with a host family when I went into the hospital & they connected me to an AMAZING doula who was there for me when I went into labour who I believe was the reason why my labour was so smooth.

GRIP has been amazing for me this time as well – gathering for a meal, learning, sharing, and now doing a Bible study (I never thought I would ever be in a Bible study). The help with baby clothes, diapers, wipes, baby care items, even some maternity clothes has been a HUGE help to me and eased stress allowing me to be much more relaxed and present as a mom. 

I urge anyone who is looking to give back in a way that matters to seriously consider getting involved with the London Pregnancy and Family Support Centre so they can continue to do the amazing work that they do so well. And I urge anyone who feels the stress of pregnancy and raising a family to reach out because you are not alone.