"God our father, we praise you and we bless you. And because of Saint Gianna, you have given us one who has witness to the gospel as a young woman, a wife, and a mother and a doctor," prayed volunteer Greg Ibarra.
Inspired by the Italian Saint Gianna in 2006, Amanda Fimbres-Beaza opened this home for pregnant women in crisis.
"We give them a home and we also give them hope. I think that's the biggest thing, is an opportunity to help them lead a more productive life, and get the prenatal services they need," said Ibarra.
Since its opening three years ago, the home has helped 12 women through their pregnancies. But suddenly, a few weeks ago, the driving force behind this home, founder Fimbres-Beaza passed away. "Mary all of a sudden from cancer, yes all of a sudden, I don't know if I can talk about it," her mother said.
Now, Amanda's family is working to preserve her dream and keep the doors open at Saint Gianna's. "Kern County has always been wonderful in their donations. They've always donated they've always opened their hearts and opened their pocket books cause what we are looking for now is donations to keep the doors open," said Ibarra.
The home does not currently receive any state or federal funding. Since Amanda's passing organizers say they've had to turn away several women because their financial future is uncertain.
"This is a crisis, we could very easily be shut down and this resource would not be available," said Saint Gianna's board member Nina Pickett. "We are in a funding crisis, we need money."
Money, organizers say, will help carry on the legacy and dream of one local woman that dedicated her last days to helping women in crisis.
"We survived so far so hopefully with God's help we will continue," said Mary Fimbres, Amada's mother.
Saint Gianna's Maternity Home is holding a 48-hour telethon until Sunday. You can call 872-BABY or stop by the home located on 3811 Mount Vernon for more information on how you can help.
