Two of Ohio’s leading pro-life organizations are teaming up to ensure the state’s pregnancy resource centers (PRCs) have a strong and effective voice in the halls of government — at a time when the state is also making historic investments in programs that support mothers, babies, and families.
The Center for Christian Virtue (CCV) and the Ohio Coalition of Pregnancy Centers (OCPC) have announced a formal partnership that designates CCV as the official advocate for the state’s largest network of PRCs at the Ohio Statehouse.
Through this collaboration, CCV will champion pro-life policies that protect and expand the lifesaving work of pregnancy centers.
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Ohio’s PRCs are an essential presence in communities across the state. A 2022 report found that in a single year, these centers provided more than $16 million in materials and services to over 97,000 women, men, and children. This included:
- Over 30,000 free pregnancy tests
- More than 28,000 free ultrasounds performed by registered nurses and medical sonographers
- Over 7,000 free STD/STI tests administered by medical professionals
- More than 99,000 packs of diapers, 154,000 pieces of baby clothing, and 19,000 containers of formula — all free of charge
“Pregnancy Centers are the backbone of the pro-life movement. They are in the trenches every day, offering help to moms, dads, and babies in need,” said Peter Range, Senior Fellow for Strategic Initiatives at CCV. “CCV is thrilled to be an official partner of the Ohio Coalition of Pregnancy Centers and eager to fight for these essential organizations and the vital healthcare services they provide to women in Ohio.”
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Savannah Marten, president of OCPC and executive director of Bella Vita Network, shared her excitement about the alliance.
“The Ohio Coalition of Pregnancy Centers exists to support the great work of Pregnancy Centers across the state. Every day, these organizations open their doors to provide real, tangible hope and support to moms and dads and their little ones. The Coalition’s partnership with Center for Christian Virtue will ensure that the work of pregnancy centers and the families they serve are protected, championed, and have a voice in our state’s capital. This exciting partnership will continue to make Ohio the best place to have and raise a child.”
The announcement comes just days after the state revealed nearly $20 million in Ohio Parenting and Pregnancy Program grants to 21 organizations, including multiple PRCs, to help connect expectant parents and caregivers with education, support, and local services. One recipient, Aim Women’s Center in Steubenville, received nearly $1 million over two years — funding that will help expand housing, case management, free ultrasounds, counseling, and other services offered at no cost.
Gov. Mike DeWine noted the state’s infant mortality rate is now at its lowest in two decades, crediting ongoing investments in families before, during, and after pregnancy.
Kara Wente, director of the Ohio Department of Children and Youth, said the programs supported through the grants reflect the state’s commitment to meeting families’ needs early and effectively.
“This investment reflects our commitment to strong families and healthy communities,” Wente said. “By supporting parents early – often before their child is even born – we’re helping them build the skills, confidence and stability they need to raise thriving children. And by working with community-based organizations across Ohio, we’re meeting families where they are with practical, meaningful support.”
Her thoughts were echoed by Lt. Gov. Jim Tressel.
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“We are continuing our investment in the health and future of Ohio’s families,” Tressel said. “These grants will support organizations that provide critical services to women and families during and after pregnancy, helping ensure every child has a strong start and every parent has access to the support they need.”
Jor-El Godsey, president of Heartbeat International, applauded the partnership and expressed hope for similar collaborations elsewhere.
“This alliance between CCV and OCPC reflects exactly what is needed to protect and advance the mission of pregnancy help,” Godsey said. “By combining grassroots service with strong advocacy, Ohio is setting an example for how we can ensure moms, dads, and babies have the support they need. I look forward to seeing partnerships like this multiply across the nation.”
With the combination of strong representation at the Statehouse and significant state grant funding, Ohio’s pregnancy centers are positioned to expand their reach — ensuring that more women and families receive compassionate care, tangible resources, and the opportunity to choose life.
