Our clients don't need anyone to make decisions for them, we walk alongside those we serve by providing them with the resources they are looking for to create their own successes. There will be no Drive-Thru Deeds this Friday, May 6th. Ship a Gift Instead Reproductive Health and Survivors "We believe in empowerment. Our clients don't need anyone to make decisions for them, we walk alongside those we serve by providing them with the resources they are looking for to create their own successes. A variety of resources come together to eliminate barriers to the success of the communities we serve, including childcare, family planning, and reproductive healthcare." —YWCA Spokane Reproductive Freedom & Domestic Violence Domestic violence limits many survivors' choices around childbearing and birth control "In addition to manipulating birth control and contraceptives, abusive partners often attempt to control their partner's decision to have children. This pressure can come through a variety of methods, including physical violence or a threat of violence to force a partner to comply with their desires to continue or terminate the pregnancy. Having children with an abusive partner can put both the survivor and the children at an increased risk of violence. Even in childbirth, the rate of complications is higher, and according to the CDC, intimate partner violence is 'associated with unplanned pregnancy, preterm birth, low birth weight, and decreased gestational age.' Many survivors of domestic violence also face the real possibility of their abuser gaining custody of their children if they leave their partner, which happens in up to 50% of cases. While maternal mortality rates are high for a variety of reasons, intimate partner homicide is among the leading causes of death for pregnant women in the US." Read More NNEDV Responds to Leaked SCOTUS Opinion Overturning Roe v. Wade "Overturning Roe would deny the bodily autonomy of millions, erode the right to privacy for all people, and further harm survivors in need. Removing this agency is unacceptable and such a decision would be particularly devastating for low-income survivors, survivors of color, survivors with disabilities, and others who already face substantial barriers to accessing the healthcare they need." Read More Local Perspectives Arlington "Our sphere of influence as a locality may be limited, but in addition to rededicating myself personally to this fight in Virginia, I want to elevate the high-quality and accessible family planning services, including provision of birth control options, that the County offers," wrote Arlington County Board Chair Katie Cristol. "Our family planning clinic isn't means-tested (although you'll be asked for proof of income to determine the sliding scale fee) and virtual appointments are available." Virginia Senator Barbara "Favola reminded that even if Roe is overturned, current Virginia law protects abortion rights." However, "Favola said Democrats will work even harder to make sure Virginia voters understand there would be consequences in 2023 if Republicans regained control of both the House and Senate. (...) Virginia voters will cast ballots in November 2023 for all 140 House and Senate seats, but action on legislation could come as soon as next session." Drive-Thru Deeds Deliver urgently needed supplies for clients We will not be hosting Drive-Thru Deeds this Friday, May 6th. However, you can shop our Amazon wish list instead! We are in urgent need of home goods for our clients: Non-Stick Cookware Sets (Pots, Pans, and Utensils) White Twin-Size Bedding Sets Order Online Thank you for your support! Do you need support? Do you know someone else who might? Call Doorways to speak with an advocate any time. 24-Hour Domestic & Sexual Violence Hotline: 703-237-0881 New to Doorways? Welcome! Learn more about: Volunteering Giving Fundraising Doorways | P.O. Box 100185, Arlington, VA 22210 Unsubscribe [email protected] Update Profile | Constant Contact Data Notice Sent by [email protected] powered by Try email marketing for free today!