Tomball Pregnancy Center, established in 2008 as a resource center, takes a life-affirming approach to unplanned pregnancies, miscarriages, prenatal care and women’s wellness, Executive Director Mariratina Burton said. Burton, who joined the center in April, said the center seeks to develop a culture where every life is valued in Tomball and elsewhere. “We want women to know that it’s not just about the life of her baby; it’s about her, too,” she said. “No matter the circumstances, we want to empower [clients] and offer hope and a redemptive story.” As part of its holistic support for families, the center offers free pregnancy tests, ultrasounds, counseling, support for adverse prenatal diagnoses and prenatal parenting and life skills education, such as infant CPR and sleep training practices, Burton said. The center also provides support for young mothers looking to continue their education. Burton said the center plans to add wellness exam options as its staff of nurses grows. While the center does not provide abortion services, Burton said the center provides abortion recovery services and seeks to be a welcoming place where women do not feel judged for seeking assistance. “My heart is for every woman to feel like the choice truly is hers,” Burton said. “We are a Christ-centered ministry, and we’re there to offer support so [clients] can make an informed decision.” To grow its client base, Burton said she hopes to work more with the Magnolia community, as it lacks a pregnancy center. The center joined the Greater Magnolia Parkway Chamber of Commerce on July 14 as a result. However, to continue growing its operations, additional volunteers and donations from the community are needed, Burton said. “I think it’s important to realize when you’re talking about a pregnancy center, that we’re not just talking about a woman and her baby—we’re talking about generations, or the community’s generations, and helping to build healthy families,” she said. “That affects all of us in the community and beyond.” Tomball Pregnancy Center 990 Village Square Drive, Ste. Q, Tomball 832-559-7817 www.facebook.com/tomballpregnancycenter