LEWES — Members of 100 Women Who Care Southern Delaware gathered June 20 in front of Stillwater Pond, on the grounds of Unitarian Universalists of Southern Delaware, to present an award of $11,500 to First State Abortion Fund.

Board member Rebecca Lowe accepted the award.

First State Abortion Fund is a statewide, volunteer-powered program rooted in a commitment to reproductive justice. Their mission is to break down financial barriers and increase abortion access for all people. Funds raised provide financial assistance to Delaware patients who call their phone line seeking financial support. The Fund also provides referrals to other services as needed.

First State Abortion Fund Board President Sarah Stowens, said, “Affordability is one of the biggest barriers to abortion access in Delaware. The average abortion cost is about $515. For many Delawareans, that can be a prohibitively large sum of money to come up with on a short timeline — particularly for those who have medical complications, which can significantly drive up the cost of care.

“We sincerely thank the 100 Women Who Care of Southern Delaware for helping our organization empower women and families across the First State when it comes to their reproductive freedom.”

This is the largest amount raised, and awarded, to date, from this growing group of local women.

Joanne Saltzberg, 100 100 Women Who Care Southern Delaware member, said, “Our members understand that rights without equal access are rights denied. This donation puts our money where our values are and will help many Sussex women with limited resources get the reproductive healthcare they want and need.”

This is the 13th round of giving for 100 Women Who Care Southern Delaware, formed in 2021, and brings the total of combined donations to over $180,000.

Members commit to donating $100 every three months. At quarterly luncheons, three members are selected to make a pitch for their favorite local non-profit and the voting that follows determines the recipient for that round of giving. The next luncheon meeting will be held Sept. 27.

For more information, go to Facebook for 100 Women Who Care Southern Delaware, or email 100womencaresd@gmail.com.