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BOGALUSA, La. – After a meticulous 18-month journey from inception to realization, the Southeast Louisiana Pregnancy Center for Women and Children celebrated its grand opening on Monday, Jan. 29. The ribbon-cutting ceremony marked a significant milestone for the community, heralding a new era of support and care for expectant mothers and young children in Bogalusa and its surrounding areas.

Led by a dedicated Board of Directors comprising prominent figures in the community, including Ben Nevers as Chairman, Tina Buenaflor MD as Medical Director, and Clelie Dugan PhD RN as Executive Director, the center is poised to make a profound impact on maternal and child healthcare.

The center’s establishment was made possible through generous donations totaling over $125,000, demonstrating the collective commitment of various organizations and individuals toward this noble cause. Notable contributions include $100,000 from the St. Tammany Crisis Center, $5,000 from the Lions Club, and over $20,000 raised through a baby bottle change drive organized by Baptist churches across Washington Parish.

Located at 502 Ave F, Bogalusa, LA 70427, the center will offer comprehensive services including prenatal and postnatal care and ongoing support for children up to four years old to ensure their smooth transition into the education system. Partnering with Brilliant Mindz for the “Cribs for Kids” initiative, the center will provide essential education on safe sleeping practices and distribute free pack-n-plays to parents who attend training sessions.

In addition to healthcare services, the center aims to address the immediate needs of families by providing one emergency visit per year and offering essentials such as coats, diapers, and food.

The remarks of local officials underscored the significance of the Southeast Louisiana Pregnancy Center. District 12 Louisiana State Senator Beth Mizell emphasized the center’s pivotal role in safeguarding the future of the parish, stating, “Our women and babies are the future of this parish, so we need to make sure they are taken care of.”

Echoing this sentiment, District 75 Louisiana State Representative John Wyble stressed the importance of community support in nurturing families and children. “We’ve got the solutions, so it is up to us to help the parish’s women,” Wyble affirmed.

Operating from Monday through Thursday, 8:00 A.M. to 1:00 P.M., the center stands ready to serve its community with compassion and dedication. Executive Director Clelie Dugan expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to lead the center, reaffirming her commitment to its mission.

As the Southeast Louisiana Pregnancy Center opens its doors, it heralds a new dawn of hope and support for women and children, promising to be a beacon of care and compassion for generations to come. With four clients already receiving assistance, the center’s impact is poised to grow exponentially, touching the lives of countless families in need.