It has been a busy season for the sidewalk team in Rochester, but not without its blessings — like when they received word that a family they had served months earlier had returned to say “Thank you!” … for being on the street in front of Planned Parenthood, for reaching out in Christ’s love, for offering tangible support, and for loving this family through their challenges.
The sidewalk encounter began when “Nana” brought her daughter, we’ll call her “Katie,” to Planned Parenthood, believing abortion was her only option. As Katie walked in, Lisa, one of our faithful Sidewalk Advocates, reached out to offer her hope and practical help. But Katie still went inside.
As Nana drove away, she stopped to speak with another Advocate, John, who noticed a small child in the back seat. He shared that the nearby pregnancy center could provide diapers, clothing, and support. Tears filled Nana’s eyes, and she whispered,
I don’t want her to do this.
John encouraged her to call and text her daughter inside the facility, to remind her she was loved and not alone. Twenty minutes later, Nana returned overflowing with joy to share, “She is not going to do it.” Instead, Katie went to the nearby pregnancy center for an ultrasound and continued care for her and her family.
During the week of Thanksgiving, the family returned to express their gratitude and introduce the precious baby boy the Advocates helped save, whose middle name is “Chosen.”
Submitted by SAFL – Rochester, NY
Every day, thousands of mothers, like Katie, are walking into abortion facilities feeling afraid, alone, and unsure where to turn. Your gift right here, right now, will help ensure someone is there on the sidewalk, like Lisa and John, — to listen, to pray, and offer real hope when it matters most. Plus every gift made through April 15, 2026 will be DOUBLED by our Spring Campaign Match.
