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Op-ed on crisis pregnancy centers, by Victoria Cobb. For Viewpoints, 2/28/10. Date published: 2/28/2010
RICHMOND --In the halls of the Capitol of Virginia, few issues divide like abortion. Its controversy isn't isolated to Jefferson's building, but exists in homes and churches across the commonwealth. No doubt that's why it's not everyone's first choice of conversation when catching up with a neighbor, an item to be brought up right after "Do you think it's going to snow again?"Regardless of one's position on the moral or public-policy questions of abortion, there is one place that should be common ground--supporting women and young girls who find themselves in the unenviable position of having an unexpected, oft times extremely difficult unplanned pregnancy. The support women need is as varied as its sources, everything from counseling, to prenatal care, to diapers, and parenting classes. Quite possibly the most enduring, consistent care for this population over the past two decades has been nonprofit pregnancy medical clinics and resource centers. Although each of the approximately 35 support centers across Virginia has unique attributes to meet the needs of the community in which it exists, their mission is the same: to provide compassionate care to women unprepared for pregnancy by offering resources and practical assistance. Last year alone, this collective resource provided free, confidential help and services to more than 19,000 women in Virginia. Their services included 9,200 free pregnancy tests, 9,600 free packs of diapers, 8,000 free bags of baby clothes, 3,800 free classes on topics ranging from infant care and parenting to job search skills. In addition, 2,800 limited ultrasounds were provided free of charge by medical professionals. These and other services amounted to about $1.1 million in services and goods to women and families. Who paid for all of this? Not the taxpayer. Instead, 13,500 individuals and 1,400 partner churches financially supported these organizations. How did those funds stretch so far? Through 1,300 volunteers logging 107,000 volunteer hours. Pregnancy resource centers have saved the taxpayers of Virginia literally millions of dollars over their many years of existence while assisting women in need. WHO COULD OBJECT? So, who could possibly object to this nonprofit, privately funded, volunteer-driven, successful network of resources and compassion for women and families in crisis? Planned Parenthood and the National Abortion Rights Action League (NARAL Pro-Choice Virginia).
Date published: 2/28/2010
Truer words have never been written. Still have doubts? Google "Abby Johnson" and read her story.
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