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Good evening everyone,

 

I’d like to begin with a short verse.  Galatians 5:13 says:  "Serve one an other humbly in love.”

And to me, that is exactly what this centre represents.  When I first came across the Pregnancy Care & Family Support Centre, I was interested in volunteering because I was drawn to the Christian foundation, the sense of community, and the heart behind what they were doing. As life unfolded, I became a young mother, and instead of volunteering, my daughter and I eventually came through the doors for a different reason.

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We came for support, programs, and resources — but what we found was much more than practical help. We found connection.  In a world where many people are searching for support and belonging, this centre is a place where people are welcomed exactly as they are. A place where you feel seen, heard, and supported without pressure or judgment.  Although I did not access pregnancy-related services specifically,  the parenting programs, support groups, classes, online resources, and one-on-one support impacted my life deeply — not only as a mother, but as a person. My daughter also benefited through opportunities to interact with other children, build social connections, and grow in a supportive environment.

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There were practical supports too — clothing, essentials, and outreach resources — but what stood out most was the dignity behind it all. I was able not only to receive support, but later give back by sometimes donating gently used items we no longer needed. That created a feeling of self-worth rather than simply receiving help.  There was also a season in my life where everything felt very heavy. During that time, I already knew where I could go. I knew support was there.   Not judgment.   Not pressure.   Just support.

 

It was often the smallest acts of care that meant the most. There were moments where staff walked me to my car during vulnerable times in my life — not because they had to, but because they genuinely cared about my wellbeing and safety. Those moments stayed with me.  One of the most beautiful parts of this centre is the people within it.

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I’ve built genuine connections with both staff and other mothers, and there’s a warmth and familiarity that feels deeply comforting.  What also stood out to me was the balance of wisdom within the women and staff at the centre. Some have grandchildren and bring a depth of experience and perspective that only comes with time,  while others have more recently raised children and understand the realities of parenting today in a very current way. That combination reminded me not to be so hard on myself as a mother and reinforced something important: none of us are meant to do this alone.

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And then there’s Theresa.

Theresa somehow manages to do a hundred things at once — supporting families, helping behind the scenes, caring for the children walking through the doors, and handing out stickers to toddlers while still making people feel genuinely seen and welcomed.  Her warmth and attention to the little things reflect the kind of environment Julie has built within this centre. That culture of compassion, dignity, and service doesn't happen by accident. It reflects years of intentional leadership and a genuine commitment to families in this community—something that has become much clearer to me over time.

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A personal story: There was a morning where I arrived early and, with permission, joined the prayer circle before the day began. I didn't even know they started their days that way, but I'm grateful I had the opportunity to experience it.  That experience felt deeply meaningful to me because you could truly feel that the foundation of this centre starts with prayer, compassion, and service.  And with Julie leading with heart, faith, and genuine care for people, the centre continues to create a place where families feel safe, supported, and connected. Twenty years of serving families with faith, compassion, and dignity is something truly meaningful, and the impact of that work reaches farther than most people will ever fully see.

 

What stands out most to me is this:

 

No matter where someone is in life — whether they arrive strong, struggling, uncertain, healing, or simply searching for connection — they are not alone when they walk through those doors.  And I think that is something truly worth celebrating tonight.  Congratulations on 20 years, and thank you, Julie, along with the staff, volunteers, and supporters who have helped make this centre what it is today.

 

Thank you.