Parents of pro-life teenage girls harassed by Rep. Brian Sims raise $100,000 for Philly non-profit
After Pennsylvania state representative Brian Sims harassed peaceful teen girls praying outside a Planned Parenthood center in Philadelphia, parents of the pro-lifers have successfully raised over $100,000 for a pro-life non-profit in the state.
Joe and Ashey Garecht were shocked when they realized the man who offered $100 to expose the identities of their teen daughters was an elected official. The embattled parents called Sims' actions "shameful and unacceptable," Fox News reports.
Speaking to the outlet, the Garechts said they launched a GoFundMe page in a bid to "turn an ugly situation into something positive."
"It means the world to us that people have rallied around our family during this difficult time," Joe Garecht said. "The prayers and words of encouragement have been amazing and have sustained our entire family."
The fundraising effort successfully reached its goal to help the Pro-Life Union of Greater Philadelphia on Thursday. The family wanted to raise money before a pro-life rally by Abby Johnson and 40 Days for Life that is scheduled for Friday, where pro-life advocates will gather in front of the Planned Parenthood abortion clinic where Sims distastefully attacked the peaceful protestors.
According to Garecht, the pro-life organization "provides thousands of diapers, wipes, articles of clothing for babies, and resources to mothers in need; operates a home caring for pregnant mothers; and so much more."
"We are beyond blessed to see people motivated to help the pro-life movement in the Greater Philadelphia region," Pro-Life Union of Greater Philadelphia's president and CEO, Tom Stevens, told Fox News.
"In 2018, there were 15,821 abortions performed at abortion centers in the Greater Philadelphia area alone. While our hearts are broken for the unborn and for their moms and dads, we are also filled with hope by this great outpouring of support for life.”
Garecht also challenged Sims on the GoFundMe website. "Brian, if you have a problem with my wife and daughters praying outside of an abortion clinic, I'm the one you can talk to... instead of harassing teenage girls." he wrote.
In response, Sims posted a video online Tuesday night, saying he "can do better." However, he did not extend an apology to the girls.
Meanwhile, Planned Parenthood said it did "not condone...Sims' approach" but called him a "champion" on pro-choice issues nonetheless.