By Maria V. Gallagher, Legislative Director, Pennsylvania Pro-Life Federation
“Angie”—whose name has been changed to protect her privacy—walked through the doors of the Pennsylvania pregnancy center feeling the full weight of the challenges that faced her.
The father of her baby was pushing her to abort her child. She did not want an abortion, but she felt trapped in an abusive relationship.
Thanks to a caring counselor, Angie found the courage and the strength she needed to chart a different course for her life—a life which included giving birth to a beautiful baby girl.
Angie’s story emerged as one of the heartwarming moments at a luncheon for service providers of Pennsylvania’s Pregnancy & Parenting Support Services Program, which is administered by Real Alternatives, Inc.
The landmark program—which began more than a quarter century again in the Keystone State—has become a model for the rest of the nation. The program funds pregnancy resource centers, maternity homes, and adoption agencies throughout the Commonwealth.
In a heartfelt speech before the crowd of service providers, PA State Senator Kristin Phillips-Hill (R-York County), noted that “many people value the important work that you do.”
The Senator added that we “need to stand together in support of each other and the unborn…We must fight for life together!”
During her keynote address, the lawmaker noted the threats and acts of violence that have been carried out against pregnancy centers in the U.S.—including Pennsylvania. And yet, devoted staff members and volunteers at these sanctuaries of love continue to offer hope and comprehensive support to pregnant women facing difficult circumstances.
“Thank you for being brave…Your dedication has not gone unnoticed,” Senator Phillips-Hill said.
For more about the life-saving, life-changing work of Real Alternatives, visit www.RealAlternatives.org