Stories of Impact: Planned Parenthood
By Marcie Shealy
Women, men, and young people rely on Planned Parenthood for accessible, affordable quality healthcare, accurate information, and comprehensive health education in a setting that preserves and protects the individual’s right to privacy. The goal is to ensure informed decision-making. Our shared belief is that everyone who walks through our doors deserves access to high-quality care, regardless of race, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, documentation, or insurance status.
Last year’s the Women’s Impact Fund grant came at a time when PPSAT had to pivot quickly to address changing laws and needs. During the summer months, we saw a huge influx of patients from out of state seeking care in Charlotte. To meet the need, PPSAT in Charlotte added staff and an additional service day to the schedule. Patients are scared and confused about new laws and look to PPSAT for guidance and comfort.
One patient wrote: “I’m so grateful for the graciousness and kindness of Planned Parenthood during this emotional time for me, I’ve never felt more safe.”
While another said, “Women supporting women – I was respected, cared for, and provided with a safe space to make a decision that was solely mine. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you.”
PPSAT has two full-time educators in Charlotte who work with teens and others in the community to provide high-quality education that reflects the needs of young people, their families, our patients, and the communities we serve. At its core, PPSAT education programs are about helping community members gain access to the health care and information they need to live healthy, productive lives. All the education programs are provided free to the community.
Access to sexual and reproductive health education will be even more important as new realities of access become apparent. As states throughout the country continue to introduce legislation restricting reproductive health care access, PPSAT prepares to meet the needs of the patients who rely on us. Just last week, the Florida Supreme Court ruled that a six-week abortion ban would go into effect on May 1. More than 80,000 abortions were performed in Florida last year, accounting for approximately 1 in 12 abortions nationwide. Now, North Carolina will be the closest state for Floridians seeking abortion care beyond six weeks, a point at which most people don’t even know they’re pregnant.
Planned Parenthood could not be more grateful to the Women’s Impact Fund for their support and belief in this work and for helping us expand access and serve those in our state and beyond who rely on PPSAT for care.
