The Crossing of Manitowoc County

Parenting support consists of lay counseling and support, community referrals, and support groups. The organization offers earn while you learn (education and rewards) program that prepares current and expecting parents with educational videos about prenatal development, infant health, parenting techniques, and life skills utilizing brightcourse. Brightcourse, an online curriculum, offers evidence based lessons. There were over 200 lessons offered (approximately 100 in spanish). Lessons are based on scientific studies and analysis in order to provide accurate content in scientifically sound decision-making. Recommended practices in most lessons are built using outcome-based research. Participation earns points that can be redeemed for baby supplies (clothing, diapers, formula, wipes, car seats, etc.) And other household goods from our boutique and pantry. The organization is open 4 days a week plus by appointment. One day a week there is a spanish speaking client advocate who serves about 70 hispanic clients. We offer over 70 classes and other materials in spanish. In 2023, The organization served 242 distinct clients, over 2,000 parenting classes were viewed, and average visits per month was 205. All our services are free and confidential.

Our medical clinic offers pregnancy testing, first trimester obstetrical ultrasounds to verify intrauterine pregnancy, and 3/4d ultrasounds. The medical clinic also provideds pregnancy options counseling, nurse consultation visits for perinatal care and birth planning, adoption referrals, education on abortion risks and parenting, abortion recovery support, and std/sti testing and treatment for clyamydia and gonorrhea. In 2023, The medical clinic increased hours to 20 hours per week (5 additional hours from previous year) and added availabilty by appointment. The registered nurse served 135 distinct clients, totaling 357 visits. Additionally, The nurse provided sexual risk avoidance education to clients at a local treatment center accounting for 234 visits. All services are free and confidential.

The Crossing home helps dedicated women break The cycle of generational poverty by providing up to 12 months of living space, mentoring, training in cooking, cleaning, other life skills, and education in parenting skills and healthy relationships. Staff coordinates resources to help clients complete their education and job training. Residents completed almost 1,000 hours of programming. Upon completing their state, residents transistion to their own homes or apartments. In 2023, four women and five children residenced at The home. On november 1, 2023, we transistioned this program to another organization working with women in recovery. The Crossing no longers provides this service. All services at The home were free and confidential.