Annual Rhinebeck Area Benefit Raises $300,000

RHINEBECK – More than 300 champions for sexual and reproductive health care and rights celebrated Planned Parenthood of Greater New York’s mission at the 30th Annual Rhinebeck Area Benefit, PPGNY’s largest and most important annual fundraising event in the Hudson Valley. The evening, hosted by long-time Planned Parenthood supporters James LaForce and Stephen Henderson, recognized PPGNY as a leading sexual and reproductive health care provider, education, and a fierce advocate committed to advancing equity and improving health outcomes for all. Among the many incredible guests were NY State Senator Michelle Hinchey and Village of Red Hook Mayor, Karen Smythe.

Thanks to the overwhelming generosity of Planned Parenthood supporters, the Rhinebeck Area Benefit raised $300,000, far exceeding PPGNY’s ambitious fundraising goal and shattering the benefit’s previous fundraising record. Funds raised will provide critical support for PPGNY’s patients and services during one of the most treacherous and difficult years for abortion access and reproductive freedom in recent history.

“The Rhinebeck Area Benefit truly embodies the PPGNY spirit—passionate groups of people coming together to ensure that no one in our communities goes without life-changing sexual and reproductive health care,” said Karen Seltzer, Planned Parenthood of Greater New York’s Board Chair. “This is a frightening moment for abortion access and the full range of sexual and reproductive health care in this country. This moment calls on each of us to double down on our commitment, our values, and our profound obligation to our patients: to care for all who need us. PPGNY is grateful to our community of supporters who make it possible for us to uphold our mission.”

Despite the challenges to abortion rights and reproductive health care nationwide, PPGNY has prepared to meet this moment and will ensure that anyone who walks through their doors will receive compassionate, professional, and non-judgmental care. Last year, the reopening of the Kingston and Goshen Health Centers was made possible with the support of donors. This year PPGNY has invested in a multipronged approach to expanding clinical services and enhancing the quality-of-care New Yorkers deserve and have come to know. PPGNY has increased capacity for abortion appointments by 20%, designated an Abortion Patient Navigator to assist people who may need to travel to New York for care, and are in the stages of expanding telehealth medication abortion under the guidance of our expert clinicians. The contributions made at the Rhinebeck Area Benefit will support efforts to expand this work and PPGNY’s commitment to equitable, accessible sexual and reproductive health care and education.

Planned Parenthood of Greater New York (PPGNY) is a leading provider, educator, and advocate of sexual and reproductive health care in New York State. PPGNY offers a wide range of sexual and reproductive health services at its 23 health centers across 65% of New York State. PPGNY is a trusted source of medically accurate, evidence-based information that allows people to make informed decisions about their health and future. As a voice for reproductive freedom, PPGNY supports legislation and policies that ensure all New Yorkers have access to the full range of reproductive health services and education.