Like many of my friends and neighbors, I've personally witnessed the critically important role Planned Parenthood plays in our community. These clinics have provided essential reproductive healthcare services for vulnerable people who may not have had any other avenues to access such services. Planned Parenthood clinic staff have done so with compassion, understanding, and unwavering support.

Unfortunately, devastating budget cuts are threatening the existence of such essential facilities. Our beloved Planned Parenthood clinics in Marquette and Petoskey are scheduled to close their doors this month. The impact of this event will be immense and far-reaching.

It's important to note that Planned Parenthood serves approximately 2.4 million people each year across the U.S., providing critical healthcare services such as cancer screenings, STD testing and treatment, and access to birth control. Most of these patients, nearly 80%, are individuals who live at 150% below the federal poverty level. They depend heavily on the services provided by Planned Parenthood (Source: Planned Parenthood Federation of America, 2019).

Some of us may not feel the impact of these closures immediately. Some of us may never have utilized or needed the safe, confidential services offered by Planned Parenthood. However, it's vital to remind ourselves that, as community members, it is our duty to look out for each other.

So, we urge our decision-makers to reconsider these cuts, to think about how the delivery of these vital services affects not only individuals but our whole community. Let's stand together to protect our local Planned Parenthood clinics. Please, sign this petition to show your support.