Free contraception resources available statewide, including locations in Berrien, Cass Counties

BERRIEN COUNTY, Mich. -- On Wednesday, Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced more than 300 locations across the state now offer free contraception resources, including multiple locations in Berrien and Cass Counties.

The resources, which are provided through the Take Control of Your Birth Control program, include over-the-counter oral birth control pills, emergency contraception, condoms and family planning educational resources.

The program was initially announced in October and expands access to contraception, "supporting reproductive health and empowering Michiganders to make informed family planning decisions," the Governor's office said.

The locations where these resources are available include, local health departments, MDHHS offices, and federally qualified health centers in every county of the state.

Officials say the emergency contraception, condoms, and over-the-counter oral contraceptives are available regardless of insurance and will continue as long as supplies are available.

“Everyone deserves the freedom to make their own decisions about their reproductive health,” said Governor Whitmer. “With over 300 locations across Michigan now offering free birth control, emergency contraception, and other essential reproductive health tools, we are taking action to ensure that all Michiganders have the support they need. Decisions about reproductive health care should be between a woman, her doctor, and her trusted community. In Michigan, we must always protect your fundamental right to control your health and your future.”

Alongside free supplies, Take Control of Your Birth Control offers information that can help those in need continue to get vital supplies covered going forward.

“The goal of this program is to ensure individuals, regardless of their circumstances, have access to tools that allow them to make their own decisions about their health and future,” said Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian, Chief Medical Executive. “We appreciate the overwhelming support we have received from organizations willing to help distribute free contraception resources to individuals. We want to make sure individuals who need and want these tools can easily obtain them. This campaign reflects the state’s ongoing commitment to ensuring equitable access to reproductive health services.”

For those without insurance, the Take Control of Your Birth program provides a guide to applying for continued coverage through Medicaid and the Plan First! program, which offer health care coverage for a variety of family planning services, including birth control, STI testing, and treatment.  

"Launched in 2023, Plan First! is a limited Medicaid benefit covering family planning services for those who do not qualify for traditional Medicaid," state officials said. "It is available to individuals of any age or gender who meet monthly income requirements and are Michigan residents. Increasing insurance coverage for family planning is another way Governor Whitmer has continued to expand access to contraception."

How to apply for Plan First!:

• Apply online
• Call 855-789-5610
• Visit a local MDHHS county office