Put money where heart, beliefs are
Recently, the Fox Valley has experienced two very distinct but related occurrences that have greatly impacted social services.
Considering state funding of several local service agencies "pork," Gov. Rod Blagojevich chose to drastically cut funding for this year. At the same time, Planned Parenthood saw a need for its services in the area and built a facility knowing it would be confronted by protests and legal challenges.
One or the other of these decisions has directly affected many citizens in this area, through either a reduction in services provided or causing them to challenge those who do not follow their pro-life philosophy.
History tells us we will not experience a quick end to either of these happenings, so I would like to offer every reader a challenge and an opportunity to put your money where your convictions are.
If you are pro-life, many agencies in the Fox Valley desperately need your monetary support for local children. Meeting the needs of women and children is an important objective of Mutual Ground, Hessed House, CASA Fox Valley, Salvation Army, Lazarus House and Embrace a Family. You might know of others. Write them a check in any amount and in the memo field write, "I support the needs of all children."
If, on the other hand, you support Planned Parenthood and its goals of meeting the needs of all women they see, then write them a check and in the memo field write, "I support the needs of all women." They, too, can use your money.
You may continue to protest as you have by walking a protest line or writing the governor, but a check will directly benefit the people who can use your immediate support.
Barb Gacic
St. Charles