Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro (D) has announced a defunding of Real Alternatives, a non-profit pregnancy assistance and crisis center in his state. Gov. Shapiro intends to continue funding Planned Parenthood and other pro-choice organizations.
The choice, by Gov. Shapiro, to defund the Real Alternatives has taken many in the state by surprise. The pregnancy crisis and assistance center has been funded in some part through the state budget planning since 1995.
The center does not advocate against abortion as a primary resource. It gives alternatives to abortion that are realistic for the mother. The center also offers one of the only services that provides shelter for the pregnant mothers as well as medical and social referrals along with mentoring.
In many situations, a woman may not want to have an abortion. They also may not know there are alternatives available to them. There may be many services the mother is not aware of. That is where Real Alternatives steps in.
Shapiro made a statement regarding the defunding of Real Alternatives, stating,
“For decades, taxpayer dollars have gone to fund Real Alternatives. My Administration will not continue that pattern – we will ensure women in this Commonwealth receive the reproductive health care they deserve. Pennsylvanians made clear by electing me as Governor that they support a woman’s freedom to choose, and I will be steadfast in defending that right.”
This statement by Shapiro has led many to question what exactly the governor considers to be “reproductive health care they deserve,” when it pertains to women in his state. It has made many believe the only health care Shapiro feels is necessary deals with the termination of the pregnancy and any aftercare associated with that termination.
Real Alternatives took to the media with a statement regarding the governor’s defunding stating, “We believe the governor has been terribly misinformed about the need for the program and its success. Terminating this program will result in an increase in abortions throughout the commonwealth.”
Pennsylvania’s citizens are starting to agree. Termination of a pregnancy can not be the only option when a pregnant woman needs help. Medical, housing, food, clothing, and true options are what is needed.
By taking away one of the only organizations that assists these mothers, Shapiro is sending a pro-abortion message loud and clear. If you want to keep your baby in Pennsylvania, you won’t get help from the state.
