SOUTHAVEN, MS (abc24.com) - Abortion. It's a hot topic in the Mid-South, especially now.
In Shelby County, Planned Parenthood and Christ Community Health Services have been battling for county money. In Mississippi, there's an amendment in this fall's election that would ban abortion in the state.
Workers at a DeSoto clinic say agree or disagree, women need to learn about it.
There's one pregnancy clinic in Southaven, the Care Center, and it does not perform abortions. Women in need come to take a free pregnancy test, have an ultrasound or receive help providing for their children.
Workers primarily provide information. Director Claudia Niebanck sees about 200 clients a month.
"The biggest problem we see is misinformation. Women come and are clueless," says Niebanck.
Niebanck gives every pregnant woman information on adoption, childbirth and, even though the center does not support the practice, abortion.
"Giving them an opportunity for an informed decision," she says. "It's very emotional. In some venues they don't even want to bring it up. It's a hot button topic."
Especially now in Mississippi. In the November 8th election, voters will decide on Initiative 26, an amendment that would make abortion illegal in the state.
"I think all babies have the right to live no matter what the case, age of mother. It's not her body to destroy. And that's my opinion. I'm going to vote yes on 26," says Julie Church.
For her part, Niebanck wants to see it passed, but even if it is outlawed says the center won't stop educating women, even about abortion.
"There would still be those residents who would be seeking out information about it. The network is such that if they're set to have an abortion they'll find out where they can go."
