Catholic Charities honors the sanctity of life, at every stage. The Catholic Charities Childbirth and Parenting Assistance (CAPA)/ PREPARES program is designed to support pregnant and parenting mothers and fathers who have chosen to honor the beautiful gift of life. Thanks to the dedication and cooperation of over 42 parishes throughout Eastern Washington, Catholic Charities is able to walk alongside parents during the first five years of this fulfilling, and at times, challenging life-long journey.

Through the unified efforts of the Catholic community in Washington State, PREPARES, a nationwide service program, has assisted over 2,500 families in the last seven years. In Eastern Washington there are 40 PREPARES ministries operating today and with the help of Catholic volunteers and volunteer parish coordinators we are able to provide essential needs to expecting parents, free of charge. The ministry is open to all people and services include parent and child support groups, referrals to community services, companionship and mentoring, parenting classes and the supply of immediate needs such as diapers, formula, clothing, car seats and safe sleeping products.

Every parish is uniquely suited to serve parents within their own community, based on the greatest need in that area. Some host diaper drives and others organize baby showers for expecting mothers. Though every parish is dedicated to service in their own way, all provide unconditional, safe and nurturing care for families in need.

CAPA/PREPARES volunteer companions offer a more intangible service to expecting parents by mentoring and supporting parents, without judgment, throughout their journey from conception through birth. Many of the families we serve have been disadvantaged and have not experienced the camaraderie and solidarity of a healthy and supportive family unit. If parents are struggling to provide basic needs for their family before entering into a CAPA/PREPARES program, how can they be expected to nurture and self-actualize their own healthy family unit? The answer to that is, not without help. And that help begins at the parish level, where parents can come for basic needs and continues with the multifaceted efforts of the CAPA/PREPARES program that provide sacred companionship, healthy parenting models, and skills-classes.

This month, the statewide Bishops’ PREPARES Valentine Appeal will support families in need and aid in the beautiful life-affirming work that parishes help champion for families throughout Washington state.