We’re Here When You Need Us
Birthright Provides
…its services are free of charge. As a nonprofit, charitable organization, Birthright exists solely because of its donors’ and volunteers’ financial support and dedication to assisting any woman or girl experiencing a crisis pregnancy. We are an independent organization and not affiliated with any religious or political group or public agency.
Birthright Is There
…for every woman who calls 1-800-550-4900 It's answered 24/7 for help. Whether you need a confidential pregnancy test or friendship and support lasting through your pregnancy and beyond, Birthright is there for you every step of the way. You are unique, and you deserve caring support.
Birthright Cares
…for every woman and does not pass judgment on the “quality” of life or circumstances of pregnancy. What’s in the past is in the past. Birthright simply asks, “How can we help you through this?” No matter how difficult a situation may seem right now, we will help you plan constructively for your future.
Birthright Allows
…each woman to ask questions and explore her options without feeling pressured or judged.
Birthright DOES NOT
…engage in the public debate on abortion.
Birthright Has
…a 24/7 Helpline for questions and someone to listen and speak with: 1-800-550-4900 …There are hundreds of Birthright chapters in the U.S., Canada, and Africa.
Birthright Helps
…through one-on-one contact with the woman in need and those around her. We provide personal attention to each woman to ensure the best care.
Birthright Helps
… any woman or girl who feels overwhelmed by an unplanned pregnancy regardless of age, race, income, nationality, religious affiliation, or disability.
Birthright Is Here For You
…for as long as you need a friend. Birthright is here to provide the caring support and practical pregnancy help you need.
Our History
Over 50 Years Of Service To Women
Birthright began in 1968, in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. Louise Summerhill, a busy housewife, and mother of seven children felt something should be done to help women through an unplanned pregnancy. Events in Louise’s life helped her understand the feelings pregnant women might experience, including feelings of loneliness, fear of criticism, tension with parents, and even the shock of finding oneself unexpectedly pregnant.
With a one-room office in Toronto and only $300 in the bank, Louise began Birthright, an emergency pregnancy service. Her steady leadership and powerful vision ensured that the new pregnancy service survived. The grassroots response to her idea was overwhelming, and the Toronto chapter quickly grew into Birthright International, the world’s first international crisis pregnancy service.
Relying On Others
In later years, Louise was glad the organization did not begin with a lot of money because it caused Birthright to rely on the “good hearts and hard work of volunteers” to provide “lots of love and common sense.” Over 55 years later, Birthright International remains true to Louise’s original vision of personal, one-on-one contact in helping relationships. Louise’s Birthright means “approachability and informality” for the women who call Birthright and our volunteers, instead of bureaucracy and meetings in highly structured business-like environments.
Birthright has hundreds of chapters worldwide. Many Birthright volunteers and the women we serve feel a special affection for Louise Summerhill, an ordinary woman who did something extraordinary to help others. An estimated 28,000 women make their first visit to a Birthright chapter every month.
Birthright also operates a 24-hour helpline, at 1-800-550-4900. Birthright is a fully independent organization, not affiliated with any church, political organization, or public agency.
We Help You Plan An Unplanned Pregnancy
Birthright takes a non-judgmental approach toward helping each woman through the circumstances of her pregnancy. Louise regretted the fact that some young unmarried mothers were belittled or shunned by their relatives for pregnancy.
Louise created the supportive, home-like environment they deserved to have. Moreover, Louise established a Charter, followed by all Birthright chapters worldwide, to define Birthright’s services, to ensure that pregnant women receive the same considerate treatment at every Birthright chapter, and to help volunteers preserve the essence of Birthright —love.
Practical And Emotional Support
Today, Birthright of Greater Hartford is proud to keep the mission of Louise Summerhill alive. Founded in 1972, Birthright of Greater Hartford was the first organization of its kind in Connecticut and continues to offer a judgment-free atmosphere where a pregnant woman can express her concerns and needs and find both practical and emotional support.
We’ll do everything we can to assist you in forming a plan that fits your life. A plan that works best for you and your pregnancy. We provide a variety of other services to help you make a workable plan for your future.
You may feel overwhelmed right now, but you are not alone. Birthright’s volunteer staff will listen to your concerns and help you plan for your future. Call 1-800-550-4900 today. Let’s talk.