Pregnancy LifeLine holds fundraiser to save lives, help families

On Thursday evening, April 3, friends and supporters of Pregnancy LifeLine gathered for the organization’s annual fundraising banquet, with over 550 guests packing the gymnasium at New Testament Christian Church in Reeds Spring. 

Since 2004, PLL has helped over 1,645 individuals, by offering services including pregnancy tests, first-trimester ultrasounds, and STI testing and treatment. Mentoring and classes also help equip parents in topics like prenatal care; parenting infants and toddlers; practical fatherhood; positive relationships; adoption; health and safety; and life skills such as nutrition and cooking. Attendance at classes earns points that can be redeemed in the Baby & Me Boutique for clothing and supplies. 

Thursday’s event included delicious dinner provided by The Fillin’ Station and dessert by Harter House, accompanied by great entertainment from the Fly by Night bluegrass band. PLL’s Barbara Garlich served as MC for an overview of the services provided by the organization and a review of 2024, during which 151 different clients were served, 86 first-trimester ultrasounds were provided, and 94% of pregnant clients chose life for their unborn babies. In addition, 316 Stone County students were reached with a message about healthy relationships including sexual health and sexual abstinence until marriage. 

Garlich also shared that improvements to the website and marketing are in process to increase the organization’s reach, as well as expanded STI testing which leads to additional visibility and confidence in the event of an unplanned pregnancy. PLL also offers restoration classes and support for those who have chosen abortion and regret their decision. 

“Our goal is to love as Jesus loves,” said Garlich. “We want people to feel safe, not judged.” 

A highlight of the program was being able to hear three personal client testimonies, each woman sharing about her own journey and all reiterating that they did, in fact, feel supported and loved through their pregnancies and as they have moved forward in their lives and careers. 

Attendees at the banquet were encouraged to support the many great sponsors that help save lives and build healthy families through their support; visit the Friends of Pregnancy LifeLine page on Facebook to read about these wonderful area businesses and organizations, and check out the “get involved” tab at https://pregnancylifeline.com to see how you can help. 

Pregnancy LifeLine is located at 19621 St. Hwy. 413, Branson West; call 417-272-5210 or text 417-593-1882 for confidential help and information.