Who We Are
Pregnancy medical clinics and resource centers provide free and low cost services for any resident in need in Pennsylvania. These medical clinics and resource centers are an essential grassroots network working to address maternal child health needs in our Commonwealth.
Pregnancy Medical Clinics provide maternal and child healthcare and operate under the direction of a medical director and a credentialed medical staff.
Pregnancy Resource Centers provide critical support services in their communities such as parenting education and material help.
The Pennsylvania Pregnancy Wellness Collaborative (PPWC) represents pregnancy medical clinics and resources centers in Pennsylvania, working together to ensure that all Pennsylvanians have the help and support they need to ensure optimal maternal and child health.
MAKE A DIFFERENCE
“They were there for me long after the first appointment, literally everything I need was provided by the center.” —Client from Women’s Choice Network in Pittsburgh
Pregnancy Wellness & Maternal Health
Pregnancy Care Centers are the first responders for a woman learning she is pregnant. Our services focus on maternal health and fetal health by providing services that foster prenatal and postnatal care. According to a 2019 report from the Gender Equity Commission, maternal deaths from childbirth have been increasing in the US in recent years, and the gap has widened for people of color, particularly black mothers. Maternal death for black Pittsburghers was also higher than 97% of similar U.S. cities—and black residents, in general, died younger than their white counterparts. Pregnancy centers intervened to address these racial and economic disparities, offering education and mentoring in rural, urban, and underserved neighborhoods.
Why Pregnancy Centers Matter in Pennsylvania
“Women who become pregnant unexpectedly need to know that there are places they can go for help, no matter their choice.” —Jill Hartman, PPWC Member
Pregnancy resource centers are a vital presence in Pennsylvania, serving tens of thousands of families across the state. In 2019, pregnancy help was given to over 60,000 young women, men, and their babies through pregnancy resource centers, with over $5.6 million and resources, diapers, formula, classes, and more! In just one year (2019), these estimated totals included:
- Over 91,000 baby items were distributed (31,259 free packs of diapers, 13,168 free packs of baby wipes, 45,318 free new and used baby clothes outfits, 562 free new car seats, and 716 free new and used strollers).
- Over 6,500 clients received free parenting education classes.
- Over 10,000 STD/STI tests were administered.
- Over 9,000 ultrasounds were performed by a registered nurse or medical sonographer.
Pregnancy medical centers provide these resources and services to empower women and families every day.