A Clanton pregnancy resource center has performed more than 70 ultrasounds since first offering the exams in January.

Care Net, a nonprofit organization that helps women deal with unexpected pregnancies, received a diagnostic sonographic scanner with the help of a $27,000 grant from Focus on the Family. The remaining $6,600 is being funded through donations.

“We’ve had two sets of twins,” said Shawna McKinley, nurse manager and clinic director for Care Net.

Care Net opened its doors in September 2006 and became a medical facility in January 2009, offering free pregnancy tests in addition to counseling from a Christian perspective. Now there is a volunteer doctor on staff, Dr. Matt Phillips. He is among about a dozen volunteers who donate their time and efforts on a weekly basis.

On average, Care Net serves about 200 patients a year.

“We’re real excited about the opportunity we have in this community to help women with pregnancy decisions and see if they have a viable pregnancy,” said Executive Director Lynda Beebe.

Beebe explained that the center is supported completely through community donations and grants. There are three paid staff members, but all the resources offered there are free.

Care Net’s biggest fundraiser is its annual fall banquet. Local churches also participate in a Baby Bottle Campaign, in which donors fill baby bottles with change and donate them to the center. There are two major campaigns each year, running from Sanctity of Human Life Sunday in January through Valentine’s Day, and from Mother’s Day through Father’s Day.

“They can do them at any time that’s convenient for the church,” said administrative assistant Kim Edwards, adding, “It doesn’t have to be churches.”

People may also purchase Choose Life vehicle license plates for $50. Beebe said of that amount, $42.50 goes to support the center.

Care Net is located between Baugh Ford and Mercury and New Life Community Church on Highway 31 in Clanton and may be reached at 755-6767. They are open Wednesdays from 1-5 p.m. and Thursdays and Fridays from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m.

A volunteer training session will be held from July 19-24. For more information, call the above number.