Susan G. Komen for the Cure, one of the most recognized breast research groups, cuts funding from Planned Parenthood as politicians look into how the organization handles abortion.
Kate Neary-Pounds with the local Planned Parenthood said, "We were really quite shocked."
She added, "We've had a really good working relationship with the foundation. We have been and remain supportive of their work but we were disappointed"
In a statement, The Susan G. Komen Foundation said it's implemented more stringent eligibility standards to safeguard donor dollars. The added that it wants to be absolutely clear that our grant making decisions are not about politics.
Neary-Pounds said, "We're very familiar with political pressure. I think any kind of negative look on important health services for either organization is disappointing."
Megan Withers said, "It's insane. It's unfortunate."
Withers, a TU student, was more than surprised by the news.
She said, "I thought it was pretty unfortunate that one organization that's committed to saving women's lives would defund another organization committed to saving women's lives."
She said it's becoming a hot topic on campus and some of the students are not taking it lightly.
Withers said, "It is. We're planning something."
Meantime Planned Parenthood will continue providing the same services.
Neary-Pounds said, "Greatful for the funding and positive messages coming through and if the funding isn't available, we'll find it in another."
The Komen grants, which totaled about $680,000 last year and $580,000 in 2010, went to at least 19 Planned Parenthood affiliates for breast-cancer screening and related services.
Planned Parenthood has raised more than $400,000 since the news broke.
