I'm running to raise money for Choices' Boutique and the families they work with - can you help!?

The Choices Boutique exists to support parents if they're struggling. We receive donations of good quality, pre-loved clothing and equipment for babies and children so that other families who need these items can collect them for free. The Boutique provides support for around 150 clients every year and makes a massive difference to many people.

Choices has supported so many people through the challenges of pregnancy right from the very beginning. Please would you give generously to support even more parents getting the help they need.

Here's a story of hope restored from a lovely Afiyah*:

Afiyah came to Choices after discovering she was pregnant. She was worried about whether her relatively new relationship would survive long-term and she was adamant that she did not want to be a single parent. Having previously suffered with depression, she was also worried about the impact a termination might have on her mental health. Although Afiyah seemed to be excited at the prospect of being a parent she was conflicted about whether it was realistic, especially as she was financially dependent on her parents.

Through Choices support, Afiyah was able to discuss her anxieties and to gain more clarity around her circumstances and her thought processes. She felt listened to and really appreciated how kind, approachable and understanding the counsellor was.

 
Eventually, she joined Choices' Befriending Service where she addressed some of her other practical concerns. Afiyah requested support through her university as well as for an ongoing disability, this meant that continuing the pregnancy felt less daunting. She also accessed free, pre-loved clothing for her baby to ease the financial pressures and help feel more able to support her family.

*Afiyah's name has been changed to protect her confidentiality