New Study Highlights Illinois as Abortion Access Haven for Patients Forced to Travel
Media Contact:
Eleanor Grano, Communications Manager, Chicago Abortion Fund
Email: communications@chicagoabortionfund.org
Phone: 312-219-1611
CHICAGO, IL — April 16th, 2025 — This week, the Guttmacher Institute released new data on abortion provision across the United States in 2024. Overall, national trends show an increase in the number of in-clinic appointments for abortion care, with 155,000 people that crossed state lines to receive care.
The report specifically names Illinois as continuing to hold the highest number of abortion care out-of-state residents – with a volume that is over double the number provided in the second-highest state, North Carolina. In the accompanying policy analysis, the report highlights the Chicago Abortion Fund’s work navigating patients with complex needs to care as part of the conditions that have allowed Illinois to remain a key access point for both Illinoisans and those across the South and Midwest.
Statement from Megan Jeyifo, Chicago Abortion Fund (CAF) Executive Director
“Illinois is carrying a staggering share of the national need for abortion care – and the latest data confirms what we see at the Chicago Abortion Fund (CAF) every single day. Our state provided 23% of all abortions for people who had to travel across state lines, far more than anywhere else in the country. Last year, CAF took over 16,000 calls from people in 41 states, and we didn’t turn anyone away who was relying on Illinois for care."
“This is not just about laws on paper: it is about what happens when legal protection is paired with deep investment, infrastructure, and collaboration between government, providers, advocates, and direct service organizations like ours. Through providing financial, travel, and logistical support we made sure that these advances weren’t just accessible to people with means, but to any and everybody who seeks them. Illinois continues to show what’s possible and we believe it is the model for care in this post-Dobbs crisis.”
Chicago Abortion Fund and Guttmacher Data
According to the Guttmacher Institute, Illinois provided approximately 35,000 abortions in 2024, representing 39% of all abortions provided in the state
In 2024, approximately 155,100 people crossed state lines for an abortion, representing 15% of all abortions provided in states without total bans
In 2024, the Chicago Abortion Fund (CAF) fielded over 16,000 requests for financial, logistical, and travel support from people seeking abortion care based in 41 states.
######
The Chicago Abortion Fund (CAF) isn't just an organization; we're a movement. For 40 years, we've been tearing down barriers to abortion care in Chicago, the Midwest, and beyond. We're not just providing funding; we're supporting our callers in accessing freedom, dignity, and autonomy.
CAF offers support for clients seeking abortions including, procedure funding, travel and related needs like childcare, emotional support and logistical expertise. The organization has relationships with 75+ abortion clinics across 12 states, and supports people nationwide. Since the Dobbs decision, CAF has received support requests from over 33,000 people. In 2024 alone, CAF fielded over 16,000 support requests and distributed over $5 million in direct assistance.