Statement of Faith We love and serve anyone and everyone no matter where they come from or who they are. But just in case you're interested in knowing who we are and what we believe, it's here for you. The basis of our service to people in our community comes from the love and grace we have received from Jesus Christ which we love to share with others. Like it says on our door, "Sharing the love and compassion of Jesus. " ​ The Holy Scriptures as originally given by God are divinely inspired, infallible, entirely trustworthy, and constitute the only supreme authority in all matters of faith and conduct. 2 Timothy 3:16-17; 2 Peter 1:19-21 There is one God, eternally existent in three Persons: Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Exodus 15:11; Psalm 83:18; Matthew 28:19 Our Lord Jesus Christ is God manifest in the flesh; we affirm His virgin birth, sinless humanity, divine miracles, bodily resurrection, ascension, ongoing mediatory work and personal return in power and glory. Matthew 1:18-25; Hebrews 1:1-3; 1 Thessalonians 4:13-17; Titus 2:13 The salvation of lost and sinful humanity is possible only through the merits of the shed blood of the Lord Jesus Christ, received by faith apart from works, and is characterized by regeneration by the Holy Spirit. Ephesians 2:8-9; Titus 3:4-7; Acts 4:12 The Holy Spirit enables believers to live a holy life, to witness and work for the Lord Jesus Christ. Acts 1:8; Romans 8:1-27 Followers of Jesus are called to express their sexuality within marriage between one natural-born man and one natural-born woman — a sexual, covenantal relationship that God uses to illustrate His relationship to His people. Genesis 2:18-25, Mark 10:6-9, 1 Corinthians 7:2 The Church, the Body of Christ, consists of all true believers 1 Corinthians 12:1-27; Colossians 1:18 Ultimately God will judge the living and the dead, those who are saved unto the resurrection of life, those who are lost unto the resurrection of damnation. John 5:28-29; 2 Corinthians 5:10; Revelation 20:15

Sex Trafficking Safety Plan Are You a Victim? Signs Fight Trafficking Training & Action Groups Barista Learn how to help at a Coffee Shop LEARN NOW Fight Human Trafficking Scroll through the above occupations. When you find one similar to yourself, click "Learn Now" to read how you can be part of the solution to the human trafficking problem. These were drawn from Engage Together's Resources . Feel free to jump in and learn from Engage Together and begin anti-trafficking networking in your community! Everyone needs to be equipped and engaged to eradicate this plague from the earth. Write Your Local Authorities about Your Concern - Find out how HERE . ​ Be alert; be safe. NEVER attempt to confront a suspected trafficker directly or alert a victim to your suspicions, for the safety of the victim—and you. But ALWAYS report your concerns. It may be the call that saves a life. Want to help eradicate human / sex trafficking from the Annapolis Valley? Click HERE to sigh up for future conference dates and our follow-up networking events . ​ We offer extensive training for our staff and volunteers to provide care for exploited persons and survivors of sex trafficking as it pertains to our work in the community. If you would like to join our team and receive our training, please contact us at info@asafeplaceforme.com . ​ Traffickers target those with addictions, mental health struggles but also children with a cell phone as young as 12 . Therefore, our community and churches must step up to love the vulnerable. We have to become more pro-active in befriending and loving our neighbors. This means more than "programs." We really need to get our in our community and volunteer and visit one another and just plain love one another. Local authorities in the Annapolis Valley say that a child carrying a cell phone today is as powerful as carrying a gun. Parents must monitor all their child's social media activity and know all passwords to all their child's accounts. (Thanks to Crime Stoppers for much of the information on this page.) ​ Who to Contact (even anonymously) If you are or have been trafficked or believe someone you know is being trafficked, the RCMP has created a TIP LINE for citizens to call or text: 902-449-2425 . The phone will be monitored 24 hours a day by a member of the Federal Serious & Organized Crime Section. All calls are confidential. Should you wish to remain anonymous, you can also contact Nova Scotia Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or text TIP202 + your message to “CRIMES” (274637) or submit tips by Secure Web Tips at www.crimestoppers.ns.ca . Calls to Crime Stoppers are not taped or traced and if police make an arrest and lay charges based on a tip, callers qualify for a cash reward. ​ The Halifax website recommends, If you witness suspicious activity you think may be linked to human trafficking, you should: Not intervene. You may put yourself and others at risk if you try to intervene. You could also inadvertently interfere with an ongoing investigation. Record all relevant information, including: names descriptions of people locations and addresses of possible suspicious activity vehicle license plates and makes and models of vehicles description of suspicious activity Report it: 911 to report a situation where someone’s life is at risk or they require immediate assistance Call or text 902-449-2425 (RCMP tip line for citizens who are or have been trafficked or if you believe someone you know is being trafficked.) 1.800.222.8477 to make an anonymous tip to Nova Scotia Crime Stoppers. 1.833.900.1010 to reach the Canadian Human Trafficking Hotline. The Hotline Response Advocates will connect callers to support and services and will also take tips, answer questions and forward information, when appropriate, to law enforcement. ​ ** Save these above numbers on your phone. ​ What can you do now? Do not participate in the cause. The demand of consumers for pornography and buyers for the online sexual exploitation of children, men, and women drives trafficking behaviors. (UNICEF, 2017) Keep up to date with that is happening in Nova Scotia human trafficking by creating a Google Alert for something like, "human trafficking Nova Scotia" that will send you notices when there is news in our province. Get a group of people together to do a community assessment . ​ Ways you can become active in your community to help end human trafficking: Public awareness and education Help organize a March for Freedom in our community to raise awareness Policy development and systemic change Regional task forces Prevention and community strengthening Volunteer with first responders and law enforcement Volunteer with rescue operations Help with reintegration support and opportunities for survivors Work with shelters and safe homes (Thanks to AFRJ for much of the information on this page. We partner with AFRJ ) ​ Our take on how to fight human trafficking? What's the core issue here? (If you want to learn what our perspective is, including our religious, Christian perspective, please read the following sentences.) It's a call for each one of us individually to take responsibility to return to God's plan for our lives, including our sexual behavior, and to love one another. In regard to our sexual behavior, we can't fight sex trafficking and be a consumer of porn or buying sex at the same time. We've had the sexual revolution where "free sex" (free from the confines of marriage) was celebrated. We can now see the horizon of where that will take us: disease, abuse, using one another, pain, heartache, guilt, shame, hopelessness, despair, depression and suicide. But you and I do not need to stay on that path, no matter how far we have traveled on it. There is a Power greater than all of these things; a Person who has the power to Redeem us (buy us back) from slavery to these wrong and damaging choices, forgive us and wash us clean and transform us so that what we have come to despise - the source of our pain and shame - can be transformed into a power to help rescue others. No matter what you've done or what's been done to you or what videos there are out there of you doing whatever, or whatever threats there are against those you love, the awesome news is that your heart and mind and life can be redeemed - made brand new. We know. It's happened to us. That's why we're here. This Person who has this transforming power is your Creator who revealed Himself completely in the Person and work of Jesus Christ. You may have been abused in the name of God or in the name of Jesus. If so, we understand. Some of us have been, too. But please don't let those lies keep you from the truth. Please keep reading. You might feel small (and you are) but God reveals in Jesus that your single life has unspeakable value, worth and purpose. Jesus Himself was only one life. But with His one life He fed the hungry, defended the broken, freed the prisoner, silenced those in authority, healed the sick and even raised the dead. He spoke truth in love. But this world (everyone) rejected Him. In contrast to Hollywood's portrayal of Him, He was quite homely looking and appeared like a reject to everyone who saw Him, like someone cursed by God. His miracles and words offended the authorities and threatened the economy. So they conspired lies and traps to betray and finally crucify Him. He did not deserve to die. But the reality of Jesus' life was that He was God humbling Himself to enter into our pain and suffering and to lay down His own life, taking on Himself the penalty for all the wrongs we have ever done (and paying for all the wrongs others have ever done to us) so that we may receive forgiveness if we accept and rely upon His sacrifice on our behalf. On that tree where Jesus was stripped naked, his flesh torn off him and crucified, God Himself entered the torture, shame, humiliation and abuse you have experienced. He understands you. In that act, God revealed His love once and for all so that no matter what circumstances you face on this rotting earth, you can know God loves you, God is for you and there is hope for all who accept and trust Him. ​ But He didn't just die in our place. He rose bodily from the dead declaring there is hope beyond this life. God offers to come and live in us, rising us from the ashes of our shame and pain if we walk away from all this world has to offer and surrender our lives to His love and grace and truth. This transforming power of God's love in Jesus is what we have experienced in our lives and it's why we are here for you. We understand that you may have experienced abuse by those who call themselves Christians, so we're not here to push anything on you. We offer all we have to you free and without any obligation. We tell you these things because we want you to know where we're coming from and we want to invite you to know this Powerful Love. Our hope is that He will reveal His love to you through us. You are precious and dearly loved. ​ We are convinced that the only solution to the tragedy of sex trafficking is love , where we as neighbors love one another. There are not enough professionals to handle this crisis in our community. The answer is for each one of us to take responsibility for ourselves and for those around us. We must invest our hearts and lives in caring for our neighbors. It is often the vulnerable and disadvantaged and young and naive that are most often lured, manipulated and enslaved by this evil of sex trafficking. Only the love and compassion of God working through those who have accepted His love can change the heart deceived by sex trafficking (including the heart of the enslaved girl or boy, the trafficker and the users). ​ Oh, and we don't pass judgment on you or anyone. We do, however, want to warn you of God's judgment. For He has declared that He will judge the living and the dead one day. For although He opposes the proud, He gives grace to the humble. What will He judge us for? One day each one of us will have our entire lives revealed before all to see. So it first starts in our hearts. You know in your heart how you wrestle with doing what you know is wrong (sin) and not doing what you know is right. You can know God's power to forgive and transform you to change what you already know is wrong within your own heart and life right now. In the past, you may have tried by yourself to be better, and failed. The Good News is that Jesus' love and truth can and will transform you. The journey He wants to take you on is a journey from lust (which destroys us) to Love (which defines Him). God is love (not lust ). As you agree with God about your sin and turn away from what you know is wrong and turn to Him, trusting in His love shown to you in Jesus, and study His Word and engage with others who are doing the same, you will experience the wonder of His forgiveness and He will reveal to you the next steps. Don't take our word for it. Read it for yourself. We suggest you start in the Gospel of John , for it was written just for you. If we can help you in any way, please contact us. We are here for you. God bless you! ​ Gospel

Sanctity of Human Life Sunday ​ ​ Sanctity of Human Life Sunday Topics ​ 1. Celebrate Life! Human life is unique, more valuable than “many sparrows” … and even more valuable than an entire herd of swine! (List the awesome science of human life) 2. The Church Celebrates every pregnancy: planned or unplanned! Jesus Himself came to us through a series of sinful and unplanned pregnancies and was unplanned by His mother. God has planned all our lives. 3. Adoption is Beautiful! Joseph adopted Jesus. God adopts all His children who believe in Jesus. 4. Discovering Grace is why He chose His Children (Eph. 1.6). Grace is beautiful in the face of unplanned pregnancy, delivering a less than perfect baby or even giving life to a child of rape. 5. Helplessness (in both the unborn and old age) The unborn tell of how we all need God’s provision to live and the elderly tell of our impending death and both tell loudly of our dependence upon God and call every human being to humble themselves, acknowledge God and give Him thanks with all our lives in service to others. 6. Knowing God : Jeremiah 22.16 (God defines what it means to know Him as “pleading and winning the cause of the poor and needy”), John 17.3 (Jesus defined this knowledge of God as “eternal life”), John 3.16 (Jesus says this quality of life eternal, this empathy and compassion that pleads and wins the cause of the poor and needy was what motivated God the Father to send His Son to die in our place that we might have this very same life eternal, knowing Him, and in turn, plead and win the cause of others who are also poor and needy.) 7. John leaped for joy at the sound of Mary’s voice (in utero at about 24 weeks). (Luke 1.5-45) Other Video ​ Imagine Adoption Promotion Video …………………………………………. https://youtu.be/pU6_OwzaW44 ​

Abortion "The Valley Care Pregnancy Centre offers caring, respectful, loving and open-minded support." - a recent guest ​ "Having a medical abortion is a major decision with emotional and psychological consequences . If you're considering this procedure, make sure you understand what it entails , side effects , possible risks , complications and alternatives ." ( Mayo Clinic ) ​ You may be considering abortion as an option for your unplanned pregnancy. In Nova Scotia, surgical abortion may be done if your pregnancy is 15 weeks and 6 days or less, counting from the first day of your last normal menstrual period. The Valley Care Pregnancy Centre offers information on abortion and decision making tools and support to help you make an informed health decision. An unplanned pregnancy is difficult to experience. We are here for you. Most of the women we talked to tell us that what they need most when facing an unplanned pregnancy is loving support and a safe place with someone who will listen. We are here for you. We have information that you may find very helpful. However, if you are only looking for abortion and do not want any other information or support or help with decision making, you may not want to visit this centre because providing or assisting with abortion is outside our scope of services, so that's important for you to know. Our first priority is you, and we look forward to seeing you. Text or Call us Now 902-678-6217 ​ ​ ​ "The honesty and caring and integrity is what I liked best about my visit with the Valley Care Pregnancy Centre." - one of our recent guests ​ Read about Plan B and other Emergency Contraception (EC) pills' effectiveness for how long you wait after taking it and how your weight may play a role in how effective Plan B is in working. ​ Have you seen magazine ads for a medical treatment, followed by one or two pages of warnings in small black print? That's because it's important to explore the risks of any health care procedure so that you make an informed decision. Here are some things you may want to consider. Risks of Abortion ​ Ambivalence "Ambivalence" is when you have mixed feelings about something. Abortion is an irreversible process. That's why ambivalence (mixed emotions about the abortion) is an "absolute contraindication" for the abortion pill (see top of page 2) . Absolute contraindications are when it is inadvisable without exception or qualification; the procedure is either permanently recommended against, or temporarily until the disqualifying condition is remediated. It means that this medication could cause a life-threatening situation if used. As long as you are experiencing ambivalence (mixed feelings), then this medication is not recommended because it may cause a life-threatening situation for you; a medical abortion must be avoided in this case. We specialize in helping people work through their mixed feelings so they can make an informed health decision. ​ Abortion and Mental Health "Having a medical abortion is a major decision with emotional and psychological consequences . If you're considering this procedure, make sure you understand what it entails , side effects , possible risks , complications and alternatives ." (Mayo Clinic ) ​ While emotional responses to abortion can vary widely among individuals, and while relief is also noted among the positive emotions after abortion, the emotional risks some studies find that are associated with abortion include: 1. Depression or anxiety. 2. Feelings of guilt, shame, or regret. 3. Relationship issues or conflict with partners or family members. 4. Difficulty coping with the decision to have an abortion. 5. Substance and Alcohol abuse. We are here to support you and heal from any or all of these symptoms if this is your experience. (1 ) The World Health Organization considers abortion to be "negative," something to be avoided. When considering your options, it's important to note that the Canadian Guidelines for Sexual Health Education often quotes the World Health Organization which labels abortion as a "negative" condition or outcome , and the personal stories from all the women who have shared their abortion experience with us strongly support this idea. ​ Negative Emotional Complications of Abortion (from the National Abortion Federation) Although the predominant emotional response to induced abortion is said to be relief for most women, negative reactions can include extreme grief, guilt, shame, anger, regret, increased symptoms of emotional disorders the patient has or has had in the past, and an inability to cope. Research has identified several psychosocial predictors for negative emotional complications of abortion. It is wise to use the list of risk factors (below) to assess the level of care you may need before an abortion. If you have risk factors, you may require more time to reconsider options or make a plan for coping strategies. ​ You may be at risk of negative emotional complications of abortion: If you feel that abortion is extremely stressful before it occurs. If you experience social stigma and antiabortion demonstrators on the day of the abortion. If you have an existing emotional disorder or mental illness prior to the abortion. If you have significant ambivalence (mixed feelings) about the decision. If you feel others are coercing (pressuring) you to have the abortion. If you have intense guilt and shame before the abortion. If you believe that abortion is the same act as killing a newborn infant. If you lack emotional support and are receiving criticism from significant people in your life. If medical professionals indicate that there is a fetal abnormality or other medical indications for the abortion. If you feel committed and attached to the pregnancy. If you are in advanced stages of pregnancy. If you are putting great effort into keeping the abortion a secret for fear of stigma. If your usual way of coping with stress is denial and repressing thoughts. If you have unresolved past losses and perception of abortion as a loss. If you have experienced past or present sexual, physical, or emotional abuse. If you have pre-existing experience of trauma. If you are expecting depression, severe grief or guilt and regret after the abortion. If you disbelieve your ability to do what it takes to produce a positive outcome after the abortion. Countless women and men have shared with us here at the Valley Care Pregnancy Centre their deep, long-term, unwanted feelings of regret, sorrow, guilt, shame, depression, anxiety, substance abuse, long-term physical health complications and suicidal thoughts and behavior which they say are directly linked to their abortion experience. (This sentiment is also expressed in the YouTube Rap music video by Flipsyde created on the anniversary of the abortion of his child. He called the video "Happy Birthday" as he grieves the regret of the loss of his child through abortion.) A local abortion provider told us that in his experience "there aren't any women who are glad they had an abortion." ​ We share these things with you because for some reason, these more difficult experiences with abortion are often not discussed. Maybe it's because people think their difficult experience is unique or maybe people don't want to add "bad news" to an already difficult situation. Whatever the reason is, we share this with you to help you make an informed health decision. ​ One crisis textbook states, "Faith plays a huge role in the outcome of a crisis ... To deny or act as if religion, faith, or spirituality are not part of any crisis is to neglect a large part of a crisis response for most people. For most people trauma is the ultimate challenge to meaning-making, and for most people, that meaning-making is attached to some kind of faith." ​ If you would like to know our heart's conviction here at the Valley Care Pregnancy Centre which we have for those facing an unplanned pregnancy (which includes a faith perspective), please read the following sentences. It is our conviction that God is the author of all life and that He has a plan for every life and that every human life is wanted and designed by Him, for He created us in His image. He can and will give you what it takes and the support you need to handle this situation if you will turn to and trust in Him. He entered into our struggles and our deepest pain in the person of His Son, Jesus. He took on Himself all the blame for all the wrong we have done and displayed His love for us by dying for our sins, in our place. He was buried and then rose again bodily from the dead three days later. If we trust in Him and His love for us, He will give us His life and love that empowers us to face any challenge. For those of us here at the Valley Care Pregnancy Centre, He has given us His love and has sent us to do whatever we can to help and support those facing an unplanned or difficult pregnancy so that they might know His love through us. ​ Some studies have been interpreted to say that there is no link between abortion and later mental health problems. However, Psychiatry and Clinical Neurosciences evaluated 30 studies and found that, "abortion is a risk factor for subsequent mental illness when compared with childbirth." Then again, the American Psychological Association put together a task force on mental health and abortion. Their conclusion was that there is "unlikely to be a single definitive research study that will determine the mental health implications of abortion once and for all given the diversity and complexity of women and their circumstances." After reviewing the evidence, you will have to decide for yourself as you make an informed health decision. We are here to be with you through this decision making process. Please let us know how we can help you. ​ Some say they do not regret their abortion. Others say it was the worst thing they've ever done. We have the time and resources to help you sort out your thoughts and feelings in making an informed health decision. ​ Other Notes of Interest The cost of abortion in Nova Scotia is free to those who have a Nova Scotia Health Card. A medical (procedural) abortion may be done if your pregnancy is 15 weeks and 6 days or less, counting from the first day of your last normal menstrual period. If you have medical concerns, like, "How long should I bleed after an abortion," please call 811 in Nova Scotia to speak to a registered nurse free of charge. Some people have voiced concern over the debate as to whether or not contraception can end the development of a growing human life. Karen Swallow Prior has written an article about this concern for The Atlantic magazine. ​ Text or Call us Now 902-678-6217 or Set Up an Appointment HERE ​ Fetal Development Many inform us that fetal development is an important consideration for them as they consider making an informed health decision. There are myths that abortion is only about clumps of cells. You may find it important to know how well developed a little one is at even 5-6 weeks. If you are interested, scroll down to see live video of human development during the early weeks of pregnancy. V V V V V ​ Most abortions in our province are performed when the baby is between 7-10 weeks gestation (after fertilization). The images below are of a fetal sac (inside and out) at 45 days gestation (about six weeks gestation). Contact Us Below, click the "play" button to view this video (below) of what is inside that 6 week fetal sac. Click the play button to see 7 and a half weeks gestation (below) Click the play button to see 9 weeks gestation (below) Pregnancy and Breast Cancer ​ Having a first full-term pregnancy before the age of 20 is a factor that has been associated with a reduced risk of developing breast cancer later in life. Not giving birth at all increases the risk for breast cancer. ​ According to The Canadian Cancer Society 's website , reproductive history is a "risk factor" for breast cancer. A risk factor is something that increases the risk of developing cancer. The website states, "Estrogen is the main hormone associated with breast cancer. Estrogen affects the growth of breast cells. Experts believe that it plays an important role in the growth of breast cancer cells as well. The type of exposure and how long cells are exposed to estrogen affects the chances that breast cancer will develop." Therefore, waiting until you are older to become pregnant (called "late pregnancy " resulting in birth) or having no pregnancies resulting in birth are risk factors for developing breast cancer. ​ As long as a woman is pregnant, exposure of breast cells to circulating estrogen is interrupted. The Canadian Cancer Society's website goes on to say that pregnancy "also lowers the total number of menstrual cycles a woman has in her lifetime. ... Women who have their first full-term pregnancy after the age of 30 have a slightly higher risk of breast cancer than women who have at least one full-term pregnancy at an earlier age. Giving birth at an early age (such as before age 20) reduces breast cancer risk." ​ The National Institutes of Health website seems to indicate the risk of breast cancer is actually more than "slight" stating that "women who have a first full-term pregnancy before age 20, the risk of developing breast cancer is about half that of women whose first full-term pregnancy occurs after the age of 30" ... "Early age at first full-term pregnancy " is a factor that has "been associated with a reduced risk of developing breast cancer later in life." ​ The Canadian Cancer Society's website goes on to state, "The more children a woman has, the greater the protection against breast cancer." Not giving birth at all (called nulliparity) "increases the risk for breast cancer." ​ Other Cancers and Pregnancy As in the development of breast cancer, exposures to hormones are thought to explain the role of pregnancy in the development of ovarian, endometrial, and other cancers. Changes in the levels of hormones during pregnancy may contribute to the variation in risk of these tumors after pregnancy. ​ ​ cancer

Sex Trafficking Safety Plan Are You a Victim? Signs Fight Trafficking Training & Action Groups Sex Trafficking Conference ​ Taken No More Conference: Compassion in Action . The TAKEN No More: Sex Trafficking Prevention and Awareness Conference was held online Saturday, May 23, 2020 at 10:00 AM with the Nova Scotia RCMP Human Trafficking Team . Brought to you by the Valley Care Pregnancy Centre, Kentville. ​ Prevention • Identification • Rescue • Restoration • Reforms Join us to discover how you can make a difference today. ​ The goal of our conferences is to gain knowledge, resources, ideas, and strategies needed to move forward in the efforts to end human trafficking and to protect the vulnerable in our local community. ​ This conference partnered with local and international agencies to Raise awareness of what sex trafficking is and how it is affecting people in our community. Educate on the issues surrounding sex trafficking and how to recognize it and how and when to report it. Give you the opportunity to form networks and groups finding the gaps and filling them with your own specific strengths and abilities. Learn ways to care for the vulnerable in our communities, protecting them from being lured into sex trafficking. We are convinced that God has uniquely positioned you right where you are to be a vital part of combating human trafficking and to prevent it from happening in the first place. Check this page for upcoming conferences in the future. ​

Sex Trafficking Safety Plan Are You a Victim? Signs Fight Trafficking Training & Action Groups Sex Trafficking ​ According to the Nova Scotia website , Nova Scotia has the highest rate of human trafficking incidents in the country. Cst. Kelli Gaudet (Kings County), told a reporter that sex trafficking is "a modern-day form of slavery that’s affecting our youth in Kings County.” Why? Because young women in our rural communities are being targeted as easy prey. ​ ​RCMP officers working in Nova Scotia say that sex trafficking in our province is a "hidden epidemic ." ​ Recruiters of victims lure a girl, enticing her by making her feel special, including her in special events, buying her clothes, trips to big cities or even a promise of love. She receives the attention willingly, but it doesn't take long before she finds herself trapped in a prison of unexpected debt, abuse, fear and forced sex. Escape for the victim is extremely complex once her recruiter has formed an emotional bond with her (and perhaps even had a child with her). She may be told that unless she sells herself, her recruiter will share incriminating video with her family or friends. She may be threatened with violence toward herself or her family and/or be threatened by those who have bought sex from her. ​ One mother of a trafficked girl told a reporter , “It doesn’t matter if you have a mother or father. It doesn’t matter if you’re loved. Sometimes you feel neglected and these people (recruiters) seem to get you at this point. It’s not easy growing up.” ​ At present, it is difficult to prosecute recruiters because of the way women are treated when they come forward to give a sworn statement. The present process is not conducive to the care an abused woman needs in that situation. Policies in our province must change so that women who come forward are welcomed warmly, protected, and treated gently. They must be protected from having to testify in front of their abusers (they need to be able to testify through video). ​ The responsibility lies with each community. Speaking about human trafficking in Nova Scotia, Cpl. David Lane from Halifax told a reporter , "Communities need to step up and take responsibility for protecting vulnerable girls. People could have a daughter who's been recruited into the human trafficking sex trade and they wouldn't even realize it." ​ Cst. Kelli Gaudet says that public awareness is the best tool in combating this problem. She said, "the more people know about this, the more it will prevent our girls and boys from getting in with this." ​ At the same time, public awareness can make it appear that something is being done about it. Not much is being done at the moment. That is why we need you to help. Check out our "Fight Human Trafficking " section to find out how you can become more involved in preventing this from continuing.

Sex Trafficking Safety Plan Are You a Victim? Signs Fight Trafficking Training & Action Groups Know the Signs of Human Trafficking ​ What to Look For • Constantly having to check in with someone via cell phone with an urgency to call or text a response • Can be escorted and/or watched • Regularly picked up by someone the parent/guardian doesn’t know • Needing to be picked up at a public location • Gone for a few days or more without a good explanation of where they were • Being isolated from friends and family • Lack of identification • Moves addresses frequently and/or often stays in hotels • No proof of legitimate employment • Unexplained injuries or bruises • New tattoos (indicate branding or ownership) • Change in physical appearance (hair and nails done) • Unexplained gifts • New clothing, lingerie, designer shoes and handbags • Nova Scotia authorities say parents should know their child's online activity and all passwords HUMAN TRAFFICKING IS DESCRIBED AS MODERN-DAY SLAVERY C rime Stoppers defines human trafficking as the recruitment, transportation, and/or harbouring of persons for the purpose of exploitation, typically for sexual exploitation or forced labour. Traffickers maintain control over their victims through the use of force, fraud, deception and/or threats of violence to the victim or someone known to them. A victim is being exploited if they are providing their services under circumstances where it would be reasonable to conclude that they feared for their safety or that of someone known to them if they refuse to provide it. Child victims of trafficking are often exploited for sexual purposes, including prostitution, pornography and sex tourism. We all want to be loved, and t raffickers exploit vulnerabilities that many people already face. They make false promises of a better life—whether that means a feeling of belonging, a better income, or a chance for new opportunities. (U.S. Department of Homeland Security) ​ Human trafficking targets the vulnerable, those who have experienced: Abuse Trauma Neglect Poverty Violence Family breakdown Homelessness Disability Victims of human trafficking face many barriers to escape and getting the help needed, including: psychological barriers, knowing and trusting avenues for help, threats to family and friends, identity theft, accrual of debt, lack of physical ability to leave, and more. (AFRJ) ​ Read, "IN THEIR SHOES: UNDERSTANDING VICTIMS’ MINDSETS AND COMMON BARRIERS TO VICTIM IDENTIFICATION " This document outlines a wide variety of both physical and psychological reasons why trafficked persons cannot or will not leave a trafficking situation.

google974647441a3bf9aa

COVID 19: SERVICE CHANGES Call or Text us Today at 902-678-6217 ​ YES WE ARE HERE FOR YOU. We are available any time 24/7 by simply calling or texting us at 902-678-6217 . Due to COVID restrictions, our physical office is closed, but we are available to talk or video chat with you. We realize that those who are pregnant and looking for support or abortion during this difficult time may face many roadblocks and frustrations and stress. We exist to help support you during this challenging time. ​ ​In an effort to protect you, and all of our vulnerable guests, and to minimize the transmission of COVID-19, we will be enacting some new policies until further notice. ​ Therefore, if you have symptoms of fever/feverish, new or existing cough or difficulty breathing or have traveled internationally (outside Canada) or outside of the province within the last 14 days or have had close contact with a confirmed or probable COVID-19 case or had close contact with a person with acute respiratory illness who has been outside Canada or outside the province in the last 14 days, we ask that you not come in to the Centre (even when the office is open), but call and we can help you remotely. ​ These types of policies are being implemented across Canada. It is our hope that we will be a part of minimizing transmission, at the same time as providing much needed services to our community. If you have any questions about our services please text or call us. We are here for you. ​ Text or Call us Today at 902-678-6217

Pregnancy & Parenting Call or Text us Today at 902-678-6217 Visit us: 104 Webster St., Kentville Parenting Support Choosing to continue your pregnancy and to parent can be challenging. We offer personal support, video pregnancy & parenting lessons and material resources. Pregnancy, delivery, birth and parenting may be experienced as wonderful, challenging and/or traumatic, depending on your history, personality, context, support and resources. (Check out this article from the National Institutes of Health for an overview of Possible Predictors of Health-damaging Behaviors and Mental Health Problems in Pregnancy ) The NIH lists complications in pregnancy which include high blood pressure, gestational diabetes, infections, preeclampsia, preterm labor, depression & anxiety, pregnancy loss/miscarriage, and stillbirth. On the positive side, scientific research suggests that soon after fetal implantation, stem cells of the fetus begin travelling into the body of the mother, remaining there for many years, enhancing the mother's immune system and bringing healing to the mother's body. If you choose pregnancy and parenting, support is always important. We are here to help support you along the way. Over and above your circle of support including what we offer, be sure to take time with your health care professional to discuss your mental health and lifestyle choices and coping supports so that you can be sure to have a well-rounded support base for your pregnancy / birth and parenting experience. ​ We Are Here for You! Free, confidential, personal support for you, your partner and your family (or any combination of those). Loving support from people who understand for as long as you need us Free pregnancy tests Maternity clothes & prenatal vitamin referral Personal, one-on-one pregnancy coaching Your own individualized pregnancy & parenting education Pregnancy, Labour, Birth & Parenting videos sent to your device or a private lounge for viewing & learning with a facilitator Community referrals for tons of resources Help with diapers, formula & breast feeding Quality baby clothes up to age two Help with finding a parenting support group in your area Phone, text & email support after hours Text us Now at 902-678-6217 ​ "Earn While You Learn" is a video-based parenting program (we can send to your device or you can watch at our Centre) which includes videos on the pregnancy and/or parenting subject or topic of your choosing and offers a worksheet for each lesson. Here are a few ladies sharing what this program has done for them: "During my time at the Centre, I have spent quite a bit of time studying the material presented in the 'Earn While You Learn' program. It has been great for me. Being a first time mom with a non-existent family, I have taken the lessons presented and committed them to heart and memory. I am truly grateful for the guidance they have given me. They have honestly helped me be the best mom I can be." - Mother of 1 ​ "I really like the 'Earn While You Learn' program. It gives me a chance to learn valuable things that help me in my everyday life - while earning "Baby Bucks" to help me get things for my children. In one of the videos I learned how to deal with my anger when my children are throwing tantrums. It also taught me how to help them deal with their tantrums without spanking. The other video I learned how to manage my money. Just those couple videos I learned a lot and enjoyed watching them." - Mother of 4 ​ "I was pregnant when I started the EWYL Program. It really helped me understand what was going on with my body and my developing baby. Like, I didn't know that babies played with their umbilical cord. How cool is that? I am going to classes now to learn how to take care of (baby's name). I am learning about first aid and what to do when my baby is sick. I am learning about how to help her sleep through the night, and how to talk to her and comfort her. Most of all, I am learning what she needs from me." - Alisha, EWYL Client "The program has completely changed my life and the way my children will be raised. Hopefully it will influence them when they are parents. The stuff I learned has actually helped in all the relationships in my life. It has helped me to understand my upbringing and how to break the cycle of poor parenting. I would be totally lost if I hadn't learned how important it is to give my daughters consistency, routines and that they need to have limits set for them. We use 1-2-3 magic and it is a God-send with Joseph. I recently found myself going through the homework looking for some information I needed with Rickki. One of the biggest, simplest things I've learned is to hug and touch my babies. Sounds so obvious, right. Like, I didn't know how important eye contact is when they are little. I didn't know that they NEED to be touched and stroked and talked to. These things changed the way I parent my babies! I could tell from the very first day that I walked into the centre that my instructor genuinely cared about my babies and I. Through the months we developed a special bond and friendship that will carry through the years. We still talk, even though I am finished with the program, and she gives moral support and helps me with any issues I may have." - Stephanie, EWYL Client ​ Parenting does not come with a manual … it is a journey of the heart. Thankfully, we are not alone in this journey and we can help, support and learn from one another. Imagine the possibilities in a world full of healthy relationships. Our work is part of an international effort to provide research, resources and services directly to individuals and communities to support the development of strong, healthy families and communities. We realize that if we want young adults to make good, healthy choices, we need to work within the context of the community in which they live and within their families. We partner with local and international organizations to help strengthen families and entire communities. ​ Check out the Public Health Agency of Canada's brochure "Your Guide to a Healthy Pregnancy . " ​ ​

An Investment for the Future Couple your investment portfolio with your charitable giving. If you have any reasonably appreciated publicly listed securities residing outside of an RSP, donating those assets can bring terrific additional tax savings. All such gifts will result in the elimination of tax on the capital gain. Plus, you still receive a charitable receipt for the full value of the stock. These two forms of tax savings can reduce the cost of a gift substantially. Please contact us if you would like a more specific illustration of how this works. Options include: Public Stock Bonds Mutual Funds It’s easy and efficient. Big Brothers will even provide a step by step guide.

Planned Giving ​ Leave a Legacy of Life Including the Valley Care Pregnancy Centre into your legacy plan is one way of showing your generosity and kindness – that you support life and want the resources God has given you to go on supporting life in others, both physically and spiritually, for generations to come. ​ Your legacy gift is tax deductible, reducing the taxes payable on your estate’s final tax return. ​ A Gift in Your Will Leaving a bequest to The Valley Care Pregnancy Centre, A Christian Outreach Ministry in your Will is the simplest way to leave a legacy of life. Writing or changing your Will is not a very difficult task. Everyone should have a Will and update it on a regular basis. To ensure that you have a valid Will, we strongly recommend that you use the services of a legal professional. To include a bequest to The Valley Care Pregnancy Centre, A Christian Outreach Ministry, you will need to provide the legal professional drafting your Will our legal name and address. It is essential that you use our correct name and address , which is: The Valley Care Pregnancy Centre, A Christian Outreach Ministry PO Box 723, (104 Webster Street) Kentville, Nova Scotia B4N 3X9 Registered charity #: 897478269 RR0001 Three sample clauses for your Will: “I give to The Valley Care Pregnancy Centre, A Christian Outreach Ministry, PO Box 723, (104 Webster Street) Kentville, Nova Scotia B4N 3X9 ____ percent of the residue of my Estate for its charitable purposes.” “I give to The Valley Care Pregnancy Centre, A Christian Outreach Ministry, PO Box 723, (104 Webster Street) Kentville, Nova Scotia B4N 3X9 the residue of my Estate for its charitable purposes.” “I give to The Valley Care Pregnancy Centre, A Christian Outreach Ministry, PO Box 723, (104 Webster Street) Kentville, Nova Scotia B4N 3X9 the sum of $____________ (or a description of the property or asset) for its charitable purposes.” Life Insurance Giving a legacy gift through life insurance, whether fully paid or with premiums still owing, is a meaningful way to support life in your community. It allows you to make a substantial gift for a relatively low premium, which is independent of your estate. ​ Real Estate You can donate personal properties as a direct gift or a gift of residual interest. Your legal counsel can work with you to develop the best plan for your gift. You may even choose to gift your property now and continue to live in it during your lifetime. ​ RRSPs, RRIFs, TFSAs and Retirement Plans You can transform tax liabilities into a charitable gift by naming The Valley Care Pregnancy Centre, A Christian Outreach Ministry as the beneficiary of your RRSP, RRIF, TFSA or pension plan. ​ Ready to Give a Gift of Life? A legacy gift is an expression of your values and faith. By supporting the Valley Care Pregnancy Centre, A Christian Outreach Ministry, you will be supporting future generations of life. We will do everything we can to assist you and your advisor in creating a gift that supports life in our community. ​ For more information , please contact us at 902.670.8510 or email us at info@asafeplaceforme.com ​ “Spending of funds is confined to board approved programs and projects. Each restricted contribution designated towards a board approved program or project will be used as designated, with the understanding that when the need for such a program or project has been met or cannot be completed for any reason determined by the board, the remaining restricted contributions designated for such programs or projects will be used where needed most.” ​ Donate Stocks One Time Gift Monthly Giving