On an even darker level, Gov. Ron DeSantis has been quick to gloat about the initiative not passing, especially after his administration's work creating commercial, website, and legal strategies to sway voters against it. The Florida Department of Health even sent cease-and-desist letters to several TV stations asking them to take down a Yes on 4 ad.
The state amendment was just three points shy of the 60 percent supermajority vote needed to enshrine one of the most contentious reproductive rights in American history. And so, here we are.
While these times are hard to fight through, there are still ways that you can support reproductive rights in Florida. Between volunteering and donating to abortion funds, here are six organizations to support now that the election is over.
Broward Women's Emergency Fund
bwefund.orgThe Broward Women's Emergency Fund (BWEF) is a volunteer-driven organization providing financial assistance to individuals in Broward County and across South Florida seeking abortion care. Just like the other emergency funds, BWEF offers help with logistical costs for travel or procedures, especially given Florida's new restrictive landscape when seeking abortions. By supporting BWEF, donors can directly aid individuals in need and help reduce the disparities that often make reproductive healthcare inaccessible.Florida Access Network
flaccessnetwork.orgWhile groups like the Florida Access Network (FAN) focus on giving financial and logistical aid to those needing abortions, it needs help now more than ever if it means more people might have to look for the procedure out of state. FAN provides financial assistance and practical support, including transportation, lodging, and childcare for those who need to travel for abortion care due to restrictive local laws. Its work ensures that individuals aren't hindered by geographic or economic barriers when seeking healthcare. Donations to this statewide organization help fund the necessary costs that patients often need to overcome.Florida Alliance of Planned Parenthood Affiliates
plannedparenthood.orgThe alliance represents Florida's Planned Parenthood health centers, which provide essential reproductive health care to communities across the Sunshine State. These centers offer affordable services in addition to abortions, including cancer screenings and even free contraception. In the wake of Amendment 4's unfortunate end, it increased its focus on advocacy, mobilizing volunteers, and providing information on issues affecting reproductive rights. Supporting Planned Parenthood means supporting healthcare access for people even before needing an abortion, given the organization's commitment to low-cost contraceptives. But it also means supporting the leading organization helping women and others needing access to reproductive resources in the country, especially when the going gets tough in states like Florida placing limitations.Florida Interfaith Coalition for Reproductive Health and Justice
flinterfaithcoalitionforreproductivehealth.orgThe Florida Interfaith Coalition for Reproductive Health and Justice brings together faith leaders and communities of all backgrounds in the state to support reproductive rights, countering the preconceived notion that religion and reproductive freedom can't coexist. This impactful organization works to promote compassionate healthcare policies while also trying to remove the stigma around abortion within religious communities. Contributions to this coalition help fund everything from educational events, advocacy campaigns, and interfaith discussions between leaders and members of different Florida institutions.Floridians for Reproductive Freedom
floridareprofreedom.orgFloridians for Reproductive Freedom is a coalition of more than 50 organizations working together to advocate for comprehensive reproductive healthcare, including access to safe and legal abortions, contraception, and sex education. Through grassroots organizing, lobbying, and community outreach, it mobilized supporters across the state to stand up against restrictive policies. By supporting the group with donations or volunteering, your assistance can help more Floridians access valuable resources across the state while building a stronger statewide network dedicated to protecting reproductive rights.Women's Emergency Network
wenfl.orgThe nonprofit organization also provides financial assistance to those who need access to abortion services, though Women's Emergency Network (WEN) is specifically based in South Florida. If you're looking to support local, WEN works with certain clinics around the state, and if you let its partner clinics know that you need assistance covering the cost of an abortion or contraception, staff members will ask some questions to determine eligibility and contact WEN themselves. In addition to funding direct services, they engage in community outreach to educate the public about the importance of reproductive rights. Therefore, donating to WEN allows its emergency fund to expand and cover the cost of more Floridians needing help accessing resources.While this new future for Florida seems abysmal, these organizations are proof that there is still room for change and support in an uncertain time. Financial donations, especially to emergency funds, could make the difference in someone receiving potentially life-saving care — especially as out-of-state options might become the new normal. But no matter how you choose to spend your energy, whether volunteering, organizing, or even creating your own mutual aid group, something is certainly better than nothing.
