Sound Choices clinic to provide mobile pregnancy services

Melissa Howard laughed and said a new mobile pregnancy clinic is currently serving as a mobile billboard.

"We are getting some stares," she said.

Howard is the client services director for Sound Choices Pregnancy Clinic, which recently purchased the vehicle.

Howard is driving the vehicle around the Columbus area as the search continues for strategic locations at which it will park to begin providing services next month not only in Columbus and Phenix City but in Harris, Chattahoochee, Talbot and Meriwether counties.

"We are looking for high-traffic areas," Howard said.

Executive director Carol Henschel said Sound Choices sees about 2,500 visits a year and that could double with the help of the mobile unit.

"A lot of people who could use our services find it difficult to get here," she said.

Sound Choices, a nonprofit organization located on Wynnton Court, offers free services, including pregnancy testing, ultrasound exams, counseling, parenting classes, birthing classes, referrals for medical, legal and practical assistance, and perinatal hospice services.

Those who attend parenting classes regularly and do the work expected earn "mommy bucks" they may use to purchase baby supplies.

Beginning 34 years ago as Crisis

Pregnancy Center, Sound Choices is a ministry of Edgewood Baptist Church but has its own board and budget. Sound Choices relies on donations for its operating funds.

"Our services are available to anyone, no matter the race or economic situation," Henschel said.

A Life in Bloom Gala to raise funds for Sound Choices is Oct. 22 at the Columbus Convention & Trade Center. The entertainment will be provided by Christian comedian Dennis Swanberg. Tickets are $35 and are available at www.partners.soundchoicespc.org. The mobile unit will be at the event,

Sound Choices does not provide or refer for abortions but helps women secure the help needed if they choose to parent or choose adoption.

"We love the girls who come to us. They are looking for someone to listen, someone who cares. We don't judge. We provide information," Howard said.

She said abortion recovery counseling also is available.

Henschel said the mobile unit is 29 feet long and 12 feet tall and cost $125,000. An ultrasound machine was donated.

The vehicle has a medically compliant exam room which features an exam table, ultrasound machine and medical-grade cabinetry. There is a space available for family members to be present for patients receiving an ultrasound.

Henschel said the idea of a mobile unit came after seeing them at conferences.

"The only other one in Georgia is in Woodstock," she said.

This story was originally published October 5, 2015 at 6:07 PM with the headline "Sound Choices clinic to provide mobile pregnancy services ."