Choices Mount Shasta & Yreka

Choices is a compassionate community that gathers and surrounds our guests with a tangible presence of love. Like, we want our guests to feel cared for...and we design each aspect of our mission to surround each parent and/or caregiver with compassion. 

What pregnant and parenting folks families in our communities deeply need are welcome and acceptance, connection and support within the context of nurturing spaces to sort out struggles that can guide each toward family stability and peace. 

We have mamas and dads and grandparents and friends coming in before or after work, we have single mamas, single dads, and partnered parents, all trying to make it work in an economy that is not kind and is woefully insufficient - even though most have jobs and/or are in college. We are acquainted with families who are housed and unhoused, living in their cars, or tents. There seems to be no way for these folks to get ahead. Child care is expensive - there aren't enough subsidies to assist in the expense. The social safety net is failing far too many families in our local communities - which translates to potential harm and trauma that will follow them through their lives. 

When family needs are not met, other elements, come in to play: stress, anxiety, depression, fear, addiction, domestic violence, and hopelessness. The potential outcomes for these? You get it, right? Suffering and struggle. 

Since 1994, CHOICES has evolved from the singular focus it originated as in 1988 toward a more extensive understanding of what it means to nurture life - beginning with a foundation of dignity, respect, and self-agency for each to direct their own path. 

We continue to welcome each guest with intentional conversation about how life is working -  because sometimes people need, reminding that we’re here for more than just shopping in our free store…are they sad? Are they worried? Feeling alone? Are they having a parenting struggle? Is there someone in your life who is hurting them? In the first week of use several people check the category of ‘I need to talk with someone now’. Families are struggling - and families are the foundation of our communities.

We listen. We love. We embrace. And we extend essential resources, both practical and relational.

Last year, clients and visitors came through our doors over 2,180 times at our north and south county locations. Clear evidence of need, whether that be diapers, wipes, clothing, and/or emotional and parenting support to help navigate life. 

We are currently a 100% volunteer organization - our volunteer advocates are here because they have experienced or witnessed struggle and suffering, and understand what it means.