Annual Banquet Raises Support For Smithfield Pregnancy Center

SMITHFIELD, N.C. – Choices Pregnancy Center has reached 60 percent of its annual fundraising goal following its Oct. 8 banquet and is continuing to seek donations to support its programs for local families.

The Smithfield-based nonprofit held its annual fundraising banquet at the Johnston County Agriculture Center.

Choices officials said about 80 percent of the organization’s annual operating budget is typically raised through the banquet, making the event its largest yearly fundraising effort.

The evening featured keynote speaker Annette Sosa-Rodriguez, a former Planned Parenthood health center manager in Chapel Hill who now speaks about her experience leaving the organization and her subsequent personal journey.

Founded in 2005, Choices Pregnancy Center provides free pregnancy testing, limited obstetric ultrasounds, pregnancy-options education, prenatal and parenting classes, life-skills education and other resources for families.

“It was an incredible evening of celebration of the difference that has been made so far this year and reminds us why this work matters,” said Grace Schupp, development and marketing director for Choices Pregnancy Center. “The support of our community allows us to keep providing education, compassionate care, and practical resources to families who need them. We are deeply grateful for everyone who has helped make this possible, and we are not done!”

According to the center, 99 percent of women included in its reported outcomes chose to continue their pregnancies. Choices also reported three cases this year in which babies were born following what the organization describes as abortion pill reversal, along with pregnancy education, parenting instruction and other family support services.

Although the banquet has ended, the center is continuing to accept donations toward its annual goal.

More information is available from Choices Pregnancy Center at 919-989-9897 or through the organization’s website.