The new unit provides free resources for the task

LAKE CHARLES, La. (KPLC) – When Becky Girola was 12 years old, she says a safe space for pregnant women was just a dream.

Today, she says she smiles because of her determination and the community members who share her mission to help some of southwest Louisiana’s most vulnerable.

“God gave me a mission a long time ago to lead such a center and it’s just amazing to see it come to life, that this dream has really come true,” said Girola.

The $1.4 million project was funded entirely by community donations and will provide free resources to young and expectant mothers such as diapers, wipes, clothes, formula, ultrasounds and counseling.

“Mom is not a shameful thing,” she said. “A mother is a beautiful thing and babies are the future, so we need to make sure we love them and pour ourselves out to the most vulnerable people in our community.”

ABC has been in the community since 1991 and has seen their needs grow over the years.

Since COVID, they’ve done mostly everything online.

“The only real interaction we would have is when they pick up their supplies,” she said.

Girola said she believes the real impact comes from moms helping other moms.

“And that’s where the real change happens,” she said.
“It’s them coming together and supporting each other building that community.”

Girola hopes the facility’s location right off Interstate 10 will not only be convenient for those looking for resources, but also hopefully bring new life to the I-10 corridor.

The facility will be located at 600 Belden St. in Lake Charles.

To volunteer or see what resources they offer, click Here.