DCAF was founded in 1995 through a deep economic need—one we have continued to address for the past three decades. When a DC-local rape survivor lacked the funds to pay for abortion care, a close friend rallied the community. When they met their fundraising goal (and then some), they used remaining funds to continue to break down economic barriers for abortion seekers in the area. 

For nearly 30 years, DCAF thrived as a 100% volunteer-led organization. From 2019 to 2022, compounded pressures from the COVID-19 pandemic, a national recession, the overturn of Roe, and anti-abortion legislation increased DCAF’s funding six-fold. To continue to meet the needs of working families, poor people, people of color, immigrants, young people, queer and trans people, disabled people, folks living with HIV, and anyone else making a decision for their life and future, DCAF hired full-time staff in 2022. 

Who are we? We are single-digit staff ruthless in our commitment to bodily autonomy, a tenacious board of directors, and a fighting force of dozens of volunteers—all backed by a community who endured decades of anti-abortion legislation and lack of congressional representation. We’re in solidarity with the nearly 100 grassroots funds across the country—just as we have been for nearly 30 years. We, and the District of Columbia, will continue to be a safe haven for those making a decision regarding their bodily autonomy. 

Are we weary of anti-abortion legislation coming for DC? Always. Do we take extra precautions to protect the privacy and security of ourselves, our volunteers, and our callers? Certainly. But will we continue our founders’ legacy of expanding access to those in need, even when legislation fails us? You better believe it.