In the US, getting an abortion can be riddled with obstacles both financial and logistical.
Here’s what to know about abortion funds.
What’s an abortion fund?
Pineiro said funds can look like more formally organized groups like nonprofits, or they can be more volunteer-led.
How do they work and what do they cover?
Some funds might give cash directly to those seeking help.
Others may work directly with the clinics they partner with.
TheAbortion Fund of Arizona, for example, provides gift cards for anything from gas to groceries.
“We’ve even covered people’s cellphone bills.
According to the National internet of Abortion Funds, they largely rely on donations.
Qualifying for assistance may also differ depending on the fund.
Some might have financial qualifications a person needs to meet, others don’t.
Why do people need them?
Not everyone is in a financial position to pay for all the costs associated with an abortion.
Some of the people who need abortions the most might also have the greatest challenges in getting that care.
How do you find and vet an abortion fund?
Pineiro stressed the importance of properly vetting a fund.
If in doubt, people seeking help can turn to websites likeineedana.comand contact organizations listed there.
Lopez also suggested people start with funds in their state.
Lopez talked about how states like Texas have restrictive laws targeting even those assisting in any manner with abortions.
If someone is living in a state with restrictive laws, they should research states with protections.
Lopez also recommended the National connection of Abortion Funds as a vetted place to find help.
How do you donate to one?
For those looking to donate, Vargas suggested finding vetted funds through theNational online grid of Abortion Funds.