WASHINGTON – Across the United States, approximately 2,750 pregnancy help centers offer life-affirming support to pregnant and parenting women in need. In celebrating their witness to life, and in observance of Pregnancy Help Appreciation Week, November 9-13, Bishop Daniel E. Thomas, chairman of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ (USCCB) Committee on Pro-Life Activities, issued the following statement:

“During Pregnancy Help Appreciation Week, we express our sincere gratitude for all those who work to provide necessary resources to women, babies, and families during pregnancy and beyond.

“Pregnancy help organizations, maternity homes, medical and resource help centers, and adoption agencies provide heroic services every day to anyone in need. Many pregnancy care centers offer free medical services, including ultrasounds, prenatal and postnatal care, and referrals for free or low-cost childbirth. They also provide resources such as baby clothes and diapers, childcare, career services, referrals for housing, and much more.

“We also recognize the life-changing help being provided by the countless volunteers in our parishes that accompany vulnerable women and families through our nationwide Walking with Moms in Need initiative.

“May all those who serve and protect life be encouraged by our prayers, our good works, and our financial support to build a culture of life.”