“We want people to know that our clinics are a resource, not something that should be stigmatized,” said Litzy Merino Reyes, the public affairs manager for Planned Parenthood in Shrewsbury, which held a pop-up event in the SLC on March 24.
“I think Planned Parenthood is such a good access point for individuals that cannot receive the same sex education that one in the general public might receive,” said Madelyn Barrett, a student who stopped by the information table that was set up in the MLK Lounge.
“I think it is really great Brookdale allowed Planned Parent to bring their resources here to try and educate a community of individuals who may not know what sex education is or not even knowing that Planned Parenthood is a viable option for them,” Barrett said.
Merino Reyes said the goal was to inform students both about sex education and services available through the Planned Parenthood organization. Students also had the opportunity to sign up for services.
“At Planned Parenthood, our moto is to be inclusive to all and be a safe space to get any kinds of treatments, benefits, or support one may lack especially when it comes to sexual education,” Merino Reyes said.
Planned Parenthood focuses on many health issues. They are a resource for annual pap smears, abortion care, PrEP care to reduce the spread of the HIV virus, check-ups, STD testing (for both men and women), pregnancy tests and more.
“We want to protect the knowledge of reproductive healthcare while also sharing it. Especially with the changing climate in our society, we hope people will want to sign up to hear what we have to share and if they want to be involved or have questions,” Merino Reyes said, noting that students and others can also stop by the local Planned Parenthood office.
During the height of the Covid pandemic, Planned Parenthood offered Covid tests and vaccines to the general public. Planned Parenthood still offers these services.
Locally, Planned Parenthood’s office is at 69 Newman Springs Road, Shrewsbury. They can (833) 377–8474 or at https://www.plannedparenthood.org/health-center/new-jersey/shrewsbury/07702/shrewsbury-center-3510-90900.
