By Kari Kuczynski and Leslie Barton
We first heard about Embrace Grace in April 2022 at a Women’s Conference at Mt. Carmel. Then we heard about it again a couple of weeks later while attending the movie “Unplanned.” The concept of providing a faith-based support group for single pregnant women resonated with us since we both volunteer at A Caring Place. We both thought God might be leading us to start Embrace Grace at Mt. Carmel. After months of prayer and planning, we began our first semester in January 2023 with eight girls. We are currently in our 5th semester and have been able to minister to over 30 girls. At the end of each semester, the girls are given a baby shower to help them with items for their babies. Everything is provided by the generous people at Mount Carmel.
We also provide monthly get-togethers at the church to give the girls the opportunity to continue the friendships they developed during their 11 weeks of classes and also meet new friends. At these get-togethers, we often have gently used baby items and clothing for the girls to take home.
One of our sweet mamas came to A Caring Place right after Christmas, distraught and overwhelmed. Her fiancé had left her on Christmas Day with a 2 yr. old and a baby due in 4 weeks. She had no support and felt hopeless. She participated in Embrace Grace, and we saw her blossom as she found community, support, and hope as she heard how much she is loved and valued by God.
There are many ways you can help with Embrace Grace. Most importantly, please pray for our girls and for this ministry. Refer any family members or friends who are single and might be experiencing an unplanned pregnancy. If you would like to provide gifts for the baby shower, please click this link. The gifts can be sent directly to our gift managers. We also have volunteer opportunities for anyone who might like to become more involved with the ministry.
We are currently in need of someone to manage material donations for our girls. If you would like more information or would like to volunteer, please contact Kari Kuczynski (610-413-5015) or Leslie Barton (513-600-9585).
