by Family Planning Council of Iowa
For Immediate Release: June 23, 2023
Contact: Allison Smith | (515)288-9028
Des Moines, IA – The Family Planning Council of Iowa (FPCI), the statewide nonprofit connecting Iowans to sexual and reproductive healthcare and education, is excited to announce the launch of Free Reproductive Health Kits for Iowans. Free kits can be picked up at over 10 locations throughout the state or requested via mail on the FPCI website: https://fpcouncil.org/request-a-repro-kit/
This program aims to provide basic reproductive health supplies and resources to individuals across Iowa, ensuring access to vital information and empowering Iowans to make informed decisions about their reproductive well-being. Reproductive Health Kits include two doses of emergency contraception (EC, or the morning-after pill), condoms, lube, and a reproductive health guide to help Iowans navigate sexual and reproductive health decisions.
FPCI is committed to enhancing the quality of life for individuals and promoting equitable access to healthcare services. Escalating attacks on sexual and reproductive healthcare have been diminishing Iowans’ autonomy, but this program aspires to foster a healthier and more informed society by eliminating financial and geographic barriers to reproductive health products and information.
FPCI is partnering with local healthcare and community organizations throughout Iowa to facilitate the distribution of these reproductive health kits. By leveraging existing networks and partnerships, the initiative aims to reach individuals of all backgrounds, particularly those who may face socioeconomic or geographical challenges in accessing reproductive healthcare resources. Drop by any of these locations and pick up a free kit – no hassle, no questions asked. Anyone of any age can take a kit or request one online while supplies last.
“We believe everyone deserves access to comprehensive sexual and reproductive health resources, regardless of their background or circumstances,” said Allison Smith, Executive Director of FPCI. “Through the Free Reproductive Health Kits, we aim to empower Iowans with the knowledge and tools they need to make informed decisions about their sexual and reproductive health. By providing these kits free of charge, we hope to eliminate financial barriers and promote a healthier, more empowered population.”
All methods of birth control, including EC, are legal and available in Iowa. This program is especially important in the wake of Attorney General Brenna Bird’s pause on payment for EC for sexual assault victims. EC is used within five days after unprotected sex to prevent pregnancy. Common situations where EC could be used include forgetting to take birth control pills regularly, having a condom break or slip off, not using a birth control method during sex, or after sexual assault. It can be kept on hand in case any of these scenarios occur.
For more information about the Free Reproductive Health Kits initiative, please visit https://fpcouncil.org/request-a-repro-kit/ or contact Allison Smith at [email protected] or (515)288-9028.
About FPCI: The Family Planning Council of Iowa (FPCI), a nonprofit organization based in Des Moines, IA, is committed to providing quality reproductive healthcare to all Iowans regardless of identity or ability to pay. We accomplish this primarily by delegating federal Title X (ten) funds: subcontracting with clinics that provide contraceptive care, STI testing, and other related services to low-income individuals in local communities. We also offer services and programming for nurses, students, and the public. We envision an Iowa where sexual and reproductive health results from responsible decision-making and access to care for all.