by Steven Ertelt
LifeNews.com Editor
November 25, 2008
Indianapolis, IN (LifeNews.com) -- In what could easily become the most offensive Christmas offer ever a Planned Parenthood affiliate is offering Christmas gift certificates. Purchasers can use them to give the gift of abortion even though the group claims that's not its purpose or intent.
"Looking for an unusual, yet practical gift this holiday season? Planned Parenthood of Indiana (PPIN) is now offering gift certificates for services or the recipient's choice of birth control method," the abortion business says.
The gift certificates can be purchased in increments of $25 online at the group's web site or for any amount at some of PPIN's 35 statewide facilities.
While PPIN president and CEO Betty Cockrum says they can be redeemed for contraception, birth control and legitimate medical services like breast exams and Pap tests, they can also be used to pay for abortions.
"Why not buy a loved one a gift this holiday season that they really need," Cockrum says in a press release LifeNews.com obtained. "The gift certificates are also a wonderful idea for that person in your life who puts everyone else first."
"Please join Planned Parenthood of Indiana and give the gift of health this holiday season," she adds.
According to Chrystal Struben-Hall, PPIN's vice president, buyers of gift certificates can give the gift of death, too.
She confirmed to WISH-TV that they can be used for abortions, even though that's not the intended purpose.
"They really are intended for preventative healthcare. We decided not to put restrictions on the gift certificates so it's for whatever people feel they need the services for most," she said.
Indiana Family Institute President Curt Smith told the television station he is"appalled" by the gift certificates and thinks a better way to help women is to provide financial support for the dozens of pregnancy centers around the state.
"I think the way to help family planning is to give the money where there's no agenda. So if somebody wants to help a woman at a time of crisis, they can support the life centers throughout Indiana," he said.
