[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 96 (Thursday, June 26, 2003)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1367]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       HONORING CLINICA MARIPOSA

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. SAM FARR

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, June 26, 2003

  Mr. FARR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Clinica Mariposa, Planed 
Parenthood of Watsonville, CA. During a time when healthcare services 
are continually becoming more expensive, and information on 
reproductive health is becoming more restricted, Planned Parenthood 
provides invaluable services and resources to the Watsonville 
community. For nearly thirty years, Clinica Mariposa has offered 
education, outreach, and medical services to an ever-growing population 
that depends on these affordable services.
  Since the establishment of Planned Parenthood services in Watsonville 
in 1974, there has been a demonstrated commitment to affordability, 
cultural sensitivity, confidentiality, and high medical standards. All 
of these things contribute to the achievement of Planned Parenthood's 
goal of ``every child, a wanted child, every family a healthy family.''
  It is frightening that in a country based on opportunity and 
equality, there are so many people who are without healthcare. Planned 
Parenthood has become a crucial part of the local healthcare network 
that provides a broad range of affordable services. Over the years, the 
growing health needs of the Watsonville community have been answered by 
Planned Parenthood and their ever-expanding services and facilities. By 
utilizing community-based satellites at farm labor camps and community 
agencies in addition to the Penny Lane location, Planned Parenthood 
fills a special role serving low-income residents regardless of their 
insurance status.
  In an atmosphere where the constitutionally established right to 
reproductive choice is being threatened, and access to comprehensive 
sex education is being limited, the presence and services of Planned 
Parenthood are critical now more than ever. The presence of Planned 
Parenthood in Watsonville has ensured that residents have the full 
spectrum of choices and opportunities regarding their health. In 
addition, through school based education programs, Planned Parenthood 
has worked to reduce unintended teen pregnancies by giving young people 
the information and skills they need to make healthy choices.
  The exceptional services that Planned Parenthood offers would be 
impossible without the dedication of the staff, the generosity of their 
many supporters, and the support of community leaders. I applaud the 
hard work of all those who have devoted their time and energy to the 
cause of affordable, high quality healthcare at the Watsonville Planned 
Parenthood.

                          ____________________