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Women`s Care Clinic

BRIDGES

 

What is BRIDGES ?


BRIDGES is an exciting pregnancy support program which allows women to earn points by completing acts of self improvement in each of five major life areas:

  • Relationships
  • Physical Health
  • Material/Financial Needs
  • Spirituality
  • Career/Education

Each month, BRIDGES participants attend a monthly meeting with a speaker and small group discussion time. Each client who attends has the opportunity to “shop” with her points in our Market for baby and mommy items. Clients are encouraged to complete and/or work towards the goals that they set at orientation.

 

How does the point system work?

You will receive points for each act of self improvement you complete in a month, as listed on the “Ways to Earn” handout. Some of these are

  • Attend pre-natal appointments
  • Complete a semester of school
  • Pay your bills on time
  • Get and keep a job
  • Attend church services or Bible study

Verification forms are provided, which you will fill out monthly. There is no limit to how many points you can earn each month!

 

What is the Market?

Our BRIDGES Market will help with many of the needs you and your baby have such as:

  • Diapers & Wipes
  • Baby gates
  • Clothing
  • Blankets
  • Cribs
  • Maternity Clothes
  • Car seats
  • Hygiene products
  • Breastfeeding supplies

Our goal is to help you provide for your child so that both you and your baby are healthier and happier!

 

Will this cost me any money?

There is no cost for our program, or for the items in the Market. All you need are points that you earn each month...the harder you work, the more you earn! Our market is supplied by people in the community who care about you and your baby. However, because items are donated, we can not guarantee the availability of any particular item.

 

Who is eligible for BRIDGES?

  • Are you no more than 20 weeks pregnant?
  • Do you live in the Vermilion County area?
  • Are you feeling overwhelmed with the responsibilities and changes parenthood can bring?

If you answered “Yes” to any of these questions, BRIDGES may be the right program for you!

 

How do I enroll in the BRIDGES program?

If you are interested in enrolling in the BRIDGES program, call Women’s Care Clinic at 431-0987 for an appointment or drop by in person. Verification of pregnancy from a physician is required.

Usually there is a waiting list, so it is better to contact us earlier in your pregnancy. While on the waiting list, many clients come to Women’s Care Clinic for individual services, receiving points right away. Once a spot is open, you will be scheduled for orientation, where you will set your goals and learn more about the rules and privileges of the program.

Our program consists of 4 different groups; however, all groups have the same speaker or topic each month.

  • Group 1 meets the 1st Thursday 6-8pm.
  • Group 2 meets the 2nd Thursday 9-11am.
  • Group 3 meets the 3rd Thursday 6-8pm.
  • Group 4 meets the 4th Thursday6-8pm.

Each group has room for 12 clients. You are allowed to bring your “BRIDGES” baby with you to all meetings.  Clients must attend meetings in order to shop in the Market.  Clients who miss 3 meetings will be dropped.  Clients must also review their orientation goals with a Clinic staff or volunteer on a quarterly basis.   If interested, call us today at 431-0987 to set up an appointment!

 

What do women think of BRIDGES?

The BRIDGES program has been an important part of our organization since 1998. The clients we serve vary in age, marital status, race, and religion. BRIDGES clients come to the program as strangers, but end up making many new friendships! But don’t take our word for it, read what some clients have to say...

"Not only has it (BRIDGES) helped tremendously with getting things for the baby, it has given me something that is just (for) me.”

“I can honestly say that when I’m at the meetings I feel comfortable and I can really be myself.”

“I hope people know that your program is about so much more that just earning points and shopping. Your program offers tools to get and use a new way of life.”

 

If you have any questions, or would like to talk further about participating, please call us at 431-0987. Our doors are open Monday-Friday 8:30-4:30. We look forward to meeting you!