Finding out you’re pregnant when you weren’t planning on it brings up a lot of questions. One of the biggest and most immediate worries for many is: Can I actually afford to have a baby? It’s a valid concern, and the thought of providing for a child can feel overwhelming, especially if your financial situation isn't what you'd hoped.
But here’s the good news: you don't have to figure it all out by yourself. North Carolina has several fantastic programs designed to support pregnant women and new parents, and organizations like iChoose are here to help fill in the gaps. Let's look at some resources that can help make parenting a more manageable and positive choice.
Covering Healthcare Costs: NC Medicaid for Pregnant Women
One of the first financial hurdles is often healthcare. Regular doctor visits during pregnancy are essential for your health and your baby's. Thankfully, North Carolina offers Medicaid for Pregnant Women.
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What it is: This program provides free or low-cost health insurance that covers your prenatal visits, delivery, and checkups for 12 months after your baby is born.
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Who qualifies: Eligibility is based on income, but the limits are often higher for pregnant women, meaning many people qualify even if they didn't before pregnancy.
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Why it helps: Knowing your medical costs are covered can lift a huge weight off your shoulders. You can learn more and see if you qualify directly from the NC Department of Health and Human Services (NC DHHS).
Help with Food and Formula: WIC and FNS (Food Stamps)
Keeping yourself healthy during pregnancy and feeding your baby afterward are top priorities. Two key North Carolina programs can help ensure you both get the nutrition you need:
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WIC (Women, Infants, and Children): The NC WIC Program provides monthly benefits for specific healthy foods like milk, eggs, cereal, fruits, vegetables, and infant formula or baby food. WIC also offers nutrition counseling and breastfeeding support. Eligibility is based on income, and pregnant women qualify sooner.
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FNS (Food and Nutrition Services / SNAP): Often called "food stamps," North Carolina's FNS program provides eligible households with a monthly EBT card to buy groceries. This can help cover your overall food budget beyond what WIC provides.
Assistance with Childcare Costs
If you plan to work or continue your education after your baby is born, childcare costs can be a major concern. North Carolina's Child Care Subsidy Program can help make quality childcare more affordable for eligible families. You can find information about eligibility and how to apply through the NC Division of Child Development and Early Education.
How iChoose Provides Direct Support
Beyond connecting you with state resources, iChoose offers direct, practical help right here in our community – all completely free.
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Free Pregnancy Confirmation: Our free services can start with a pregnancy test. If your pregnancy test is positive, we can discuss the next steps with you which may include a free ultrasound to help you find out exactly how far along you are and verify viability.
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Parenting Education: We offer classes (including one-on-one options) covering everything from pregnancy health to newborn care and parenting skills. These classes empower you with knowledge and confidence.
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Material Assistance: Through our "earn while you learn" approach, attending classes earns you points to spend in our Baby Boutique. You can get essential items like diapers, wipes, formula, baby clothes, and even bigger items like car seats, helping to offset the costs of preparing for your baby.
Wrapping Up
The financial side of parenting can seem daunting, but you are not alone. With support from state programs in North Carolina and the direct assistance offered here at iChoose, many of the financial worries can be managed. Choosing to parent might be more possible than you think.
Take the first step by getting clear information about your pregnancy and exploring all your choices in a supportive environment. You have strength and resources available to you. Let us help you find them. Schedule an appointment online or //ichoose.me/contact us today to talk with our caring team.