In a press release on August 4, it was announced that the City of Philadelphia would be providing the Abortion Liberation Fund of PA (ALF-PA) with over $500,000  in funding. 

As abortion bans start to take place in some states around the country, clinics and abortion groups across the country are calling for more of this kind of financial backing. Overall, the funding is meant to eliminate any kind of financial obstacles put in front of women seeking an abortion. 

The incoming funds will provide emergency financial assistance to those seeking abortions, as many cannot use their insurance to cover it, or can’t afford it. 

This comes on the heels of women going to Mexico to get the procedure done or to find abortion medication. Many abortion activists and groups in Mexico are now helping a record number of American women seeking the procedure, also providing a safe place to do so. 

The ALF-PA was founded in 1985 as a response to the Pennsylvania General Assembly eliminating Medicaid funding for abortions. The group has helped thousands of women seeking abortions with funding. In just the fiscal year of 2021, more than 3,200 people were assisted by the ALF-PA. In addition to financial help, the group builds community power and fosters resources for care and support. 

According to the group's 2019 needs assessment, more than 6,300 individuals in the area needed financial assistance. This was in part due to the Medicaid ban, as well as simply not being able to pay out of pocket for the procedures. Out of pocket costs can range from $400-$3,000 and that does not factor in other costs like travel, daycare, and other barriers women face. 

Abortion is still legal in Pennsylvania. 

“Abortion is healthcare no matter where you live,” said Mayor Jim Kenney in a statement. “In Philadelphia it is legal, but sadly that does not mean it is accessible for

everyone. Providing financial support for people seeking abortions is one of the ways we will support Philadelphians in their fundamental right to bodily autonomy.” 

“The Abortion Liberation Fund has a long and impressive history of dismantling barriers to abortion and reproductive justice, and we are proud to support their work and the people they serve with this historic and unprecedented commitment of funding,” Kenney continued.