SUPPORT, EDUCATION, AND SHELTER

Many young teenagers and women become pregnant because they lack experience in sex education, and have little or no knowledge of using contraception. Additionally, the average age of unwed mothers is lower each year. Currently, the youngest unwed mother is thirteen, and many range from fourteen to eighteen. The fathers of these babies are usually the same age. St. Lucy Center also cares for unwed mothers older than this who cannot support themselves.

Many unwed mothers do not realize they are pregnant until their families become suspicious. Some come to St. Lucy on their own to ask for help when their partners have abandoned them. Some were discovered by parents and brought to St. Lucy for help. Others are referred by the Social Service and Child Welfare Departments, or are referred by doctors and nurses in the hospitals.

No matter how they are placed here, these young girls and women have great courage to come to St. Lucy for help instead of having abortions. St. Lucy Center is a safe and peaceful home environment. There is a resident counselor to provide emotional support. They also receive medical care, job training, and sex education.

Due to their young age, these unwed mothers often have higher rate of complications during pregnancy and birth. Fortunately, they receive regular prenatal care and high-risk management from OB-GYN doctors and hospitals.

The St. Lucy director, Carmela Huang oversees all of the Family Services.