User:Realalternatives
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Real Alternatives [1] is a non-profit, charitable organization that administers the first-of-its-kind government-funded Pennsylvania Alternative to Abortion Services Program for the Pennsylvania Department of Public Welfare which is funded by the General Assembly of Pennsylvania at $5.5 million a year. [2]
The Pennsylvania Alternative to Abortion Services Program is made up of a statewide network of social service agencies, pregnancy support centers, maternity residences and adoption agencies that offer comprehensive, life-affirming alternatives to abortion to women dealing with unplanned pregnancies. The 121 centers, located throughout Pennsylvania, are staffed with professional and trained counselors. Serving more than 125,000 women throughout Pennsylvania since the program began in March 1996, the centers offer free and confidential support, encouragement, guidance and practical assistance to women so they do not need to choose abortion. [3]
The enabling legislation for the Alternative to Abortion Services Program authorizes the Service Providers to be reimbursed for the free alternative to abortion services they provide to women until childbirth and for up to 12 months post-partum. Services include, but are not strictly limited to: • counseling • pregnancy, childbirth, parenting, and abstinence classes • adoption information; assistance for post delivery stress • assistance with food; shelter; clothing; health care • other supportive programs and services for related outreach programs.[4]