Maryhaven’s Stable Cradle Program, designed to benefit pregnant mothers in need of assistance, especially those struggling with substance abuse, has made its way to Morrow County.
Originally started in Franklin County, the Stable Cradle Program aims to promote a healthy birthing process by providing support for expectant mothers.
“The ultimate goal of this program is to have a healthy baby and a healthy mom with our assistance,” Stable Cradle Advocate at Maryhaven Courtnie Howell said. “(We provide) whatever the mother might (need) like housing, education, basic pregnancy education, post and prenatal care, support, advocacy, guidance and transportation.”
Howell states the support does not stop there, and the organization will provide any services the expecting mother may need.
“I think Morrow County needs a program like the Stable Cradle,” Morrow County resident Raylinda Webb who is expecting twin boys. “We don’t have a lot of resources here for single mom’s”.
The program is funded through the Delaware-Morrow Mental Health and Recovery Services Board. It is provided freely to all residents of Morrow County.
Howell has reached out to several area agencies that aim to work together with the Stable Cradle Program to bolster community outreach.
She says that Heartbeat of Morrow County and Help Me Grow have been instrumental in their support. The Oxygen Store/Medtique Boutique has expressed interest in providing mom’s in need of breast pumps, maternity belts and other maternity supplies. Mount Gilead High School has also been supportive in her efforts.
“Mom’s mentoring moms and supporting one another is desperately needed,” Howell said. “To me the Stable Cradle program is for moms of Morrow County to have a voice, advocacy and guidance.”
Maryhaven in Mount Gilead is located at 528 West Marion Road.
Raylinda Webb and Courtnie Howell stand outside the Maryhaven office in Mount Gilead, the site of the Stable Cradle program.
