ON MAY 9, the aroma of fish fillets and hushpuppies sizzled and crackled inside deep fryers. Children played tag on the freshly manicured lawn. Others smiled joyfully as they gathered new friends at the petting zoo, enjoyed the bounce house, and had their faces painted. The banter of friendly conversations stretched past a cluster of oversized white tents. At the same time, a steady line of people studied the items donated to the silent auction — this was the annual First Choice Fish Fry and Auction to benefit the First Choice Pregnancy Center. Located at 1102 Madison St., First Choice is a judgment-free zone. They provide compassionate care, offer life-affirming services, and have a boutique where parents can earn much-needed items for their babies by attending parenting classes.
Executive Director Morgan Bargers York said, “For 20 years, the annual fish fry has helped raise funds needed to provide free pregnancy services, parenting education, and material support to women and families throughout Bedford County. Every plate served helps make it possible for a mother to see her baby on an ultrasound screen, for a young family to receive encouragement, and for a child to be welcomed into the world with support.”
A group of local volunteers from Southern Longbeards caught enough catfish to feed 1,000 people for this event. “Fishing means so much more than fish,” York said. “The fish fry is incredibly special because it brings together our clients, our supporters, and our staff and volunteers for one big celebration of life. Proceeds from this event directly fund services that help parents choose life and provide stable, loving homes for children. While the community gathered for food and fellowship, the impact reached far beyond one single evening.”
Just as it has for the last 20 years, the annual fundraiser brought our community together to celebrate babies, families, and another incredible milestone.
“The time of fellowship and seeing smiles on so many faces reminded us of what the Lord is doing through First Choice. He’s loving us, teaching us how to love each other, and He’s doing it all through the amazing gift of a child,” York said. GN
For more information, go to www.firstchoicepregnancy.com.
