HICKORY, N.C. — Community leaders, supporters, and members of the Catawba County business community gathered Tuesday for the grand opening and ribbon-cutting ceremony of the Wanda K. Thompson Pregnancy Care Center in Hickory.

The new facility, located at 222 2nd Avenue Southeast, is operated by the Pregnancy Care Center of Catawba Valley and was unveiled during an open house held Monday afternoon.

The center provides free pregnancy-related services and support for women and families. According to the organization, services include pregnancy testing, limited ultrasound examinations, parenting and childbirth education, infant care instruction, mentoring programs, counseling, and referrals to community resources.

Officials say the new center was created to expand services and provide a welcoming environment for women facing pregnancy decisions. The facility is named in honor of Wanda K. Thompson, whose family has supported numerous community initiatives in the region.

The ribbon-cutting ceremony marked the official opening of the center, which will serve residents throughout Catawba County and surrounding communities.