A Year Of Hope In Owen County

By Morgan Thomas, Sweet Owen Editor

OWENTON, Ky. — When Hope Lives Pregnancy Center opened in September 2024, it brought

more than a new resource to Owen County — it brought hope, compassion and critical services

for families facing pregnancy-related challenges.

This September, the nonprofit will celebrate its first anniversary of providing free medical care,

education and tangible support to local families.

Founded in 2023 by a group of Southern Baptists, Hope Lives operates out of a leased and fully

renovated building at 55 Ellis Road. Funded through donations from individuals, churches and

businesses, the center has already served more than 62 clients and their families.

“Community support has been incredible,” said Executive Director Kelli Carper, a registered

nurse and Kentucky Missionary Service Corps missionary. “We’ve had help from churches and

individuals in Owen, Boone, Gallatin, Henry and Carroll counties — so many people have

stepped up to meet this need.”

Hope Lives offers a wide range of free services, including pregnancy tests, limited obstetric

ultrasounds and abortion pill reversal, all performed by a registered nurse and overseen by a

licensed physician. Ultrasound services are especially valuable in Owen County, where no

obstetrician’s office exists and residents often must travel to Frankfort or Florence for similar

care.

The center also provides in-person and virtual pregnancy and parenting classes, as well as

tangible support such as maternity, baby and toddler supplies. Assistance is available not only

to mothers and fathers, but also to grandparents, foster parents and adoptive families.

Emotional and spiritual support is a key part of the ministry’s mission.

For those facing food insecurity, Hope Lives maintains indoor and outdoor baby food and

formula pantries. A baby boutique stocked with donated clothing and supplies is also available.

Items must be clean, smoke-free, in good working condition and include all parts. Due to safety

standards, car seats and cribs must be new. Donations can be dropped off during open hours

or, for small items, placed in the secure box near the front door.

Hope Lives relies on community generosity to operate. Financial contributions can be made

through the Supporters tab at hopelivespregnancycenter.com. An Amazon wish list is also

available for those who prefer to give specific items.

The organization will host its second annual fundraising banquet at 6 p.m. Sept. 18 at General

Butler State Park in Carrollton. Tickets and sponsorships are available on the website or by

contacting Carper at 859-818-3735 or hopelivespregnancycenter@gmail.com.

“Everything we offer is free, regardless of income or where you live,” Carper said. “We want

people to know they have a safe place to turn — a place where hope truly lives.”