The U.S. is currently facing an alarming baby formula shortage, from which Texas has not been immune. The shortage is obviously worrisome for many new and expectant mothers, leading many to reach out to friends and ministries to help provide for their children. This is a great reminder that we must do more to stand beside mothers, children, and families to ensure that we are more than just anti-abortion, but authentically Pro-Life, before and after birth.
Texas has already began working to help women and children in crisis by offering numerous resources, including counseling, parenting and adoption assistance, material resources like diapers, wipes, formula, cribs, and even maternal housing through the state Alternatives to Abortion (A2A) program. The A2A program has done so much to help mothers and families in Texas. But this formula shortage demonstrates we must do even more.
As Texans we must step up to help these mothers and families in need. Texas Right to Life is already preparing our legislative priorities for the next session, starting January, 2023. Our priorities include expanding our prenatal and postnatal resources to better care for the most vulnerable. Our goal is to cultivate an environment for women, children, and families to flourish.
First, we want to make certain that critical support continues to be offered and protected for pregnant women and families through the adoption agencies, maternity homes, and pregnancy resource centers funded by the A2A program. As we joyously see a greater number of women choosing Life with the implementation of the Texas Heartbeat Act, we need to ensure this invaluable program grows with the increased demand for resources.
We also want to make sure that our state and its institutions are friendly toward pregnant and parenting mothers in college and in the workplace. This coming session, Pro-Lifers plan to advocate for strengthened accommodations in universities and businesses, protecting women who take on pregnancy and motherhood while they continue their education and career. Doing so will lead to their and their children’s long-term social and economic stability and independence.
One more way Texas can build a truly Pro-Life state is by improving the adoption system and Child Protective Services (CPS). Adoption needs to be much more affordable, accessible, and efficient, and we must work harder to ensure that children are safe and in loving homes as quickly as possible.
Though the next session does not start until January, there are plenty of ways for Texans to stand beside women and children to help with the current shortage and to promote Life.
Most of us can help with the formula shortage by sending our friends in need to local pregnancy resource centers (PRCs) to ask for baby formula. PRCs often carry baby formula, offered to parents for free or as a bonus for attending a parenting or life skills class. A mother seeking formula can also be encouraged to ask her OB/GYN, pediatrician’s office, or local WIC office for free samples or supplies.
We can also give women, families, and pregnancy resource centers gift cards to local grocery stores that sell baby formula and other supplies, or cash designated for this purpose. Giving gift cards and cash instead of purchasing baby formula for others will prevent delays between getting the essential formula from the store and into the hands of families in need.
If you are in need of formula or other baby supplies, please call Texas Right to Life and we will help find resources near you. You can also click here to find Pro-Life pregnancy resources in your area.
Texas Right to Life is thankful to stand alongside our supporters who have for decades acted as a voice for the voiceless. Now as we approach the anticipated overturning of Roe v. Wade, we must redouble our efforts, continuing to build a state that cultivates Life.
