Jeremy Ratliff

Unplanned pregnancy can be a scary time for anyone, especially teens. During such times where the unknown haunts and an uncertain future looms, it may seem as if there is nowhere to turn for help.

Thanks to the generous support of the local community and private donations, Hope Life Center of Antigo welcomes those in need of such assistance, with open arms.

“Our first center to open in the area was our Wausau location which opened in 2003,” explains HLC Executive Director Jack Hoogendyk. “Once we were up and running and began having some success in Wausau, some folks in Antigo felt there was a need for our services in Antigo as well. These folks set about forming a feasibility board to explore the idea, located space for a center, put a budget together and opened in 2011. Thanks to a very generous donor base and community support, here we are four years later and running strong as ever!”

HLC operates strictly on private donations from individuals, businesses and organizations alike. The center does not receive any sort of government funding, however Hoogendyk is very excited about a recent grant.

“We recently learned we were approved for a grant from the Aspirus Health Foundation in the amount of $8,500. We were informed last month and just received the funds last week. We are so very appreciative of the foundation for their generosity,” Hoogendyk adds.

Along with free pregnancy testing, the center and its staff of volunteers also offers free OB ultrasound to determine viability and age of an unborn child, options and counseling for pregnant mothers, pregnancy, education, testing and treatment for Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI’s), pregnancy and parenting educations as well as infant supplies such as diapers, wipes and blankets.

Most of all, all visitors and information are protected with the highest degree of confidentiality.

“Our only limits to confidentiality are with minors under the age of 14, or legal matters such as the case of sexual assault and so forth,” Hoogendyk adds.

Staff volunteers include trained advocates as well as medical staff including a volunteer nurse and medical director who is a licensed physician.

Hope Life Center is open every Tuesday and Thursday between the hours of 9 AM and 5 PM at 622 5th Ave. in Antigo.

“If traffic and client base warrants, we are more than happy to consider adding a third day for our services,” Hoogendyk said.

Appointments are preferred, but walk-ins are welcome.

Those who are interested in more information are welcome to call or text HLC at 715-470-1007 or visit online at http://www.hopewi.org.