Becoming a parent completely changes your life. The birth of a newborn disrupts everyday life and can lead to discouragement and worry.
The Birth Resource Center in Trois-Rivières set up home help and the respite service has been in demand ever since.
Julie Roy is settling into her new role as a mother. She is a single mother and can count on the help and support of Christiane, a Birth Resource Center employee, who visits her at home every week. A close bond develops between the trio.
“It is an invaluable resource both for the tasks it is intended to complete and for discussions to boost morale or clear the mind. Last week I went to Costco to get diapers and milk and I felt at peace,” confided Julie Roy, who uses several services at the Birth Resource Center.
“I really respond to the needs of mothers and they are different. Sometimes they just want to talk, they have to empty their hearts,” said Christiane Charest, who is currently supporting four families.
The respite service was launched during the pandemic when new parents were cooped up at home, far from their families. Since that day, around twenty carers have taken the time to make everyday life easier for families in the region.
“We are working on prevention. We want to break the isolation. We helped mothers who felt disadvantaged and lacked resources. A week later they were at the center for group classes and were proud of what they had accomplished,” commented Nadia Tatonetti, Director of the Birth Resources Center.
Although the Birth Resource Center has been in Trois-Rivières for 35 years, the organization aims to raise awareness of the numerous services available to all families. Pregnancy and yoga courses are offered for pregnant women. There is a breastfeeding service and a 24-hour hotline with breastfeeding sponsors.
In addition, various courses are offered for babies and mothers, such as workshops on developing motor skills. Inexpensive clothing is also sold locally.