Fellowship Hall

‘Shifra’ offers a beautiful start to new life

When 18 year old Carly discovered she was pregnant, she was excited.  Unfortunately, her boyfriend didn’t share her feelings.  Not ready to be a father, his preferred options were abortion or adoption.  Neither of those were possibilities for Carly.

“I wouldn’t be able to live with myself if I didn’t keep the baby.”

Feeling heartsick, knowing that she lacked the support of her baby’s father and without parental contact for 3 years, Carly was alone and afraid. She desperately needed guidance and comfort if she was going to protect the precious life growing inside her.

Carly had a dilemma and Shifra Home offered the solution.  The aptly- named home, is a maternity residence for young women.   Translated, ‘Shifra’ means ‘beautiful’  – a beautiful way to start a new life.

This safe haven, named after a midwife in Exodus 1:15, provides a nurturing environment for those who need emotional support, resources and accommodations.

Due in February, Carly is happy, working and thriving. She is receiving medical attention, guidance and comfort. Her excitement has returned. She can delight in knowing that she is having a baby boy and has already chosen his name.  After three months of morning sickness, Carly can now focus on the joys of pregnancy; Shifra Home has taken care of her needs.

Numerous resources are at Carly’s fingertips, including prenatal classes with a birth coach to counselling.  Volunteers play a vital role at Shifra Home.  Susan, a dedicated volunteer, describes her experience by saying, “Volunteering at Shifra Home reminds me to be thankful for the blessings in my life and for the journey I have taken to get where I am today.  Volunteering is an opportunity to give back to my community, share my parenting skills and, at the same time, be a support to the girls through their journey.”

Carly is one of the lucky ones.  There are over 200 teen pregnancies per year in the Halton region alone.  Shifra Home is the only home of its kind in the area.

Hand in hand with the staff and volunteers at Shifra Home, Carly is making plans for a happy, successful life with her baby.  She feels the home has offered her ‘adjustment time’ and has allowed her to maintain her pre-pregnancy dreams of achieving a university degree.

For more information about Shifra Home, please call 905-681-9633 or visit www.shifrahomes.com.