At Life Choices and 7B Care Clinic, the mission is simple: to empower individuals to make life-affirming decisions and foster healthy families. I was pleasantly surprised to learn that 7B Care Clinic offers much more than just ultrasounds and diapers—especially for someone like me, who is expecting but not facing a crisis pregnancy. They offer more than ultrasounds and diapers to go.
When people think of pregnancy centers, they often imagine a place where teenagers in crisis seek refuge. However, the needs of 7B Care Clinic's clients are far more diverse. While the center undoubtedly provides a safe space for those in crisis, it also offers long-term support through classes, mentoring, and material assistance to help parents not just survive, but thrive. Their clientele spans from young girls to middle-aged married women, each facing unique circumstances.
Executive Director Janine Shepard shared, “Our goal is to empower individuals not only to choose life for their baby but to equip them with the tools they need to succeed as parents.”
Janine’s passion for this mission is personal. She knows firsthand the challenges of navigating an unplanned pregnancy. Her daughter experienced an unplanned pregnancy at age 17, which shocked the family. They soon found themselves turning to 7B Care Clinic for support. Janine’s first experience with the center was as a client.
“Now my granddaughter is 13, and she is amazing,” Janine says with a proud smile.
I have a personal and unexpected connection to 7B Care Clinic. As someone who is currently pregnant, I was initially unsure about where to go for my first ultrasound. When my midwife recommended 7B Care Clinic, I was confused. “But I’m not in a crisis pregnancy,” I explained. “I’m married, in a safe environment, and I have insurance.” My midwife simply smiled and reassured me that 7B Care Clinic offers this service to anyone in the community, regardless of their situation. So, I decided to go—and I was blown away by their generosity. They insisted I take something from their free shop, and I’m so glad I did! I wear the gently used maternity pants they gave me at least once a week.
7B Care Clinic offers a wide range of services designed to support families, including parenting education, life skills courses, and financial coaching. These services are all aimed at equipping families for a bright and successful future.
Many people are surprised to learn that 7B Care Clinic not only supports mothers but actively engages fathers as well. Research consistently shows that when fathers are involved and supportive, the chances of a mother choosing life increase significantly.
Janine shared a powerful statistic: when a father sees his baby on an ultrasound, 98% of the time, he will advocate for life.
To further support fathers, 7B Care Clinic offers mentorship programs and classes specifically tailored to them. While women often make up the majority of pregnancy clinic staff, there is a strong need for male volunteers to step in and fill this crucial role.
In addition to its many services, 7B Care Clinic is introducing the Baby Box, a safe and anonymous space for mothers in crisis to leave their newborns. Located at the EMS station on Division in Sandpoint, it is the second of its kind in the Pacific Northwest. 7B Care Clinic will ensure the community is informed about this service, which includes a 30-day follow-up period for mothers who may wish to reclaim their baby.
Life Choices and 7B Care Clinic provide more than just crisis support—they are a vital community resource offering guidance, education, and practical assistance. Whether you're seeking pregnancy care, parenting support, or opportunities to volunteer, 7B Care Clinic has a place for you. The clinic hosts monthly tours and volunteer orientations for anyone interested in learning more about their services. For more information, visit their website or call 208-263-7621.