Planned Parenthood offering gift option

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INDIANAPOLIS, Nov. 26 (UPI) -- Planned Parenthood in Indiana says it is selling gift certificates this holiday season for the first time in its history.

Chrystal Struben-Hall, Planned Parenthood in Indiana vice president, said the reason for the controversial sales move is due to current economic woes nationwide and how such problems may impact women's healthcare needs, WISH-TV, Indianapolis, said Wednesday.

"People are making really tough decisions about putting gas in their car and food on their table, so we know that many women especially put healthcare at the bottom of their list to do," she said.

The gift certificates, which are only available in $25 increments, can be used on a number of Planned Parenthood services, including abortions.

Struben-Hall told WISH-TV while the decision to place abortion services under the certificate umbrella would undoubtedly prompt criticism, Planned Parenthood did not want to restrict those seeking healthcare.

"They really are intended for preventative healthcare," she said. "We decided not to put restrictions on the gift certificates so it's for whatever people feel they need the services for most."