The Perot Foundation of Dallas, founded by billionaire and former presidential candidate Ross Perot, announced Thursday that it is donating $1 million to Planned Parenthood of Greater Texas to help provide health care and education services.
"For nearly 100 years Planned Parenthood has helped to educate men and women regarding family planning and general family health," said Margot Perot in a written statement. "Our family has supported this nonprofit for many years because we are impressed with the work they do -- providing birth control; scientifically based education; breast health exams; and basic, life-saving healthcare for women who cannot afford services otherwise."
The $1 million is undesignated, according to a Planned Parenthood spokeswoman, so the money can be used for the general mission of the organization.
"We also recognize the need to further inform the public of the mission of this great organization and the need to support it at this critical time," said Perot.
The donation comes as Texas lawmakers have sought to restrict access to the organization's services. Last winter, the state transitioned to the Texas Women's Health Program, essentially cutting off funding to Texas Planned Parenthood providers. Recent abortion restrictions signed into state law in June have led to the closing of three clinics in Bryan, Huntsville and Lufkin, Texas.
"We are thrilled that this generous gift will enable us to continue providing basic, preventive health care to our patients who come to Planned Parenthood because they need access to quality, affordable care. More than one in four Texas women are uninsured, and our state's cervical cancer rate is among the highest in the nation," said Ken S. Lambrecht, president and CEO of Planned Parenthood of Greater Texas, the North Dallas Gazette reported. "Thanks to the generosity of The Perot Foundation and other community members, Planned Parenthood is proud to be here for the Texans who count on us, no matter what."
Before You Go
