This guest blog is written by Shrew Smith, a Magnolia Project participant. The Magnolia Project is a federal Healthy Start program that improves the health and well-being of women during their childbearing years by empowering communities to address medical, behavioral, and cultural and social service needs.

This is my second pregnancy with Magnolia. As a participant at the Magnolia Project my experience here with my pregnancy was superb beyond words. The staff here is always kind and cared deeply for the health of me and my unborn baby and made me feel very comfortable with my appointments.

Staff was always available to answer questions and help me with any situation I may have been dealing with.

My baby was born healthy at 40 weeks and I’m breastfeeding while using the Nexplanon as my choice of a birth control method. The services at Magnolia truly helped me get through a healthy pregnancy and successful birth.

During this time that I am on maternity leave, my Case Manager provided me with a referral for financial assistance to help me with getting my rent paid. I will be returning to work on Oct 1, 2015. My Case Manager  has been  very helpful and responsive, and keeps me engaged with Magnolia activities!