Around the world, women and girls face a host of barriers to healthcare, despite being more likely to suffer from certain medical conditions such as autoimmune disorders. Furthermore, in some societies, strict adherence to gender-based social norms contributes to decreased access to quality health and reproductive care, and increased risk of physical, sexual, and emotional violence. Fortunately, charities are working to eliminate gender-based disparities in healthcare. So, we had to ask: What are the best charities that fight for women’s health?

The best charities that fight for women’s health are Magee-Womens Research Institute and Foundation, and Postpartum Support International. Charities such as the Center for Reproductive Rights and Fos Feminista work to protect the reproductive rights of women around the world.

Whether you want to raise awareness of gender-based disparities in healthcare, fund research to shape the future of women’s healthcare, or ensure affordable access to contraception, there is a charity for you. Keep reading to learn more about what the best charities that fight for women’s health are all about, how they work, and the best way to donate.

Here’s What All the Best Charities That Fight for Women’s Health Have in Common

The charities on this list were chosen based on their mission, impact, transparency ratings, and achievements. 

They operate primarily throughout the US and Canada, but some fight for women’s health internationally. 

Many of these charities champion women’s health by focusing on healthcare issues that affect women almost exclusively, like breast cancer and postpartum depression. Others provide resources for women to learn about healthier lifestyle choices and disease prevention.

Some work to break the cycle of poverty for the health of future generations, while others advocate for policies that increase access to quality care for marginalized populations.

Yet, they all share a common goal: to create a world where all women have access to comprehensive healthcare.

These Are the 9 Best Charities That Fight for Women’s Health in 2024

Below are our favorite charities that fight for health equity (you can click on their link to directly jump to their section in this article):

Best Charities That Fight for Women’s Health

Magee-Womens Research Institute and Foundation

Postpartum Support International

Center for Reproductive Rights

Fos Feminista

Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation

StrongMinds

American Heart Association

March of Dimes

SeekHer Foundation

Magee-Womens Research Institute and Foundation: Shaping the Future of Women’s Health

Magee-Womens Research Institute and Foundation was founded in 1992 by Irma Goertzen to study women’s health and reproductive biology. Today, they are the largest research institute dedicated solely to advancing the field of women’s health.

Magee-Womens Research Institute and Foundation holds a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator. 

“Changing the way the world treats women.”

Magee-Womens Research Institute and Foundation

Magee-Womens Research Institute and Foundation utilizes their resources to advance healthcare for women around the world. For example, their research aims to improve healthcare outcomes for women at all stages of life, from reproductive development and pregnancy to infectious diseases and women’s cancers. In addition to improving existing treatments and practices, they pioneer new treatments, such as woman-controlled HIV prevention. Furthermore, they combine areas of research to ensure comprehensive healthcare, such as the impact of cancer treatments on fertility, or oncofertility.

Since their founding, Magee-Womens Research Institute and Foundation has improved healthcare for millions of women around the world. For example, in 2022, they secured funding for 31 primary investigators and awarded 49 research grants, totaling $42,492,710. And, their work has yielded invaluable resources for researchers around the world. For example, their Steve N. Caritis Magee Obstetric Maternal and Infant Database and Biobase, gives researchers access to high-quality, reliable data from over 220,000 pregnancies.

You can donate directly to Magee-Womens Research Institute and Foundation via their website. You can also support the charity by following them on social media.

Postpartum Support International: Prioritizing Perinatal Mental Health

Postpartum Support International was founded in 1987 by Jane Honikman in Santa Barbara, California to increase awareness of the emotional changes experienced by women during and after pregnancy. Today, the charity provides peer-to-peer support and other resources to women, their families, and their friends.

Postpartum Support International has a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator. GuideStar gives the charity a Platinum Seal of Transparency.

“You are not alone. You are not to blame. With help, you will be well.”

Postpartum Support International

Postpartum Support International fights for women’s health by promoting awareness, prevention, and treatment of mental health issues during and after pregnancy. For example, in 2021, they spearheaded Mind The Gap, an initiative designed to increase research and funding for perinatal mental health. They also provide direct support through online support groups and peer-to-peer mentorship. Moreover, their PSI HelpLine offers basic information, support, and resources around the clock, and their provider directory connects women to qualified mental health professionals in their area. 

Since their founding, Postpartum Support International has provided continued support for new mothers suffering from mental health issues. For example, in 2018, they developed and launched the first Perinatal Mental Health Certification, and have certified over 3,000 providers in 15 countries. Furthermore, in 2022, their annual fundraiser, Climb Out of the Darkness, raised $386,000 across 112 events with almost 4,000 participants around the world.

You can donate directly to Postpartum Support International through their website. You can also support the charity by becoming a member, volunteering, or by participating in a Climb Out of the Darkness event.

Center for Reproductive Rights: Ensuring Reproductive Rights For All Women

The Center for Reproductive Rights was founded in 1922 by Janet Benshoof to advance legal protections for abortion rights. Today, they are the only global legal advocacy organization dedicated to fighting for women’s health by protecting reproductive rights.

Charity Navigator gives the Center for Reproductive Rights a 4-star rating. GuideStar gives the charity a Bronze Seal of Transparency. 

“Using the power of law to advance reproductive rights as fundamental human rights around the world.”

Center for Reproductive Rights

The Center for Reproductive Rights fights for women’s health by advocating for safe and legal access to gynecological and obstetric services, including abortion. For example, after the U.S. Supreme Court eliminated the constitutional right to abortion in 2022, they advocated for federal legislation to protect and preserve abortion access. Additionally, they partner with organizations in Pakistan to monitor the government’s implementation of new laws ensuring free access to repair services for obstetric fistula. Furthermore, they are a leading source of information on reproductive rights, laws, policies, and issues, all of which are accessible to the public free of cost.

Since their founding, the Center for Reproductive Rights has helped billions of women around the world access safe, legal gynecological and obstetric services. For example, over 1.2 billion people in Africa are now living under stronger legal protections and reproductive rights thanks to the Center for Reproductive Rights’s advocacy efforts. Furthermore, their Pro Bono Program consists of over 800 attorneys from 80 countries who fight for reproductive health free of charge. For example, in 2021, they contributed legal services valued at $32.1 million.

You can donate to the Center for Reproductive Rights via their website. Additionally, you can participate in the charity’s campaigns or attend an awareness event.

Fos Feminista: Creating a Global Feminist Future

Fos Feminista was founded in 2021 as a collaborative effort by three existing women’s health organizations: the Center for Health and Gender Equity, the International Women’s Health Coalition, and the International Planned Parenthood Federation Western Hemisphere Region. Today, they are an intersectional feminist organization working to advance sexual and reproductive health around the world.

Charity Navigator gives the Fos Feminista a 4-star rating. GuideStar gives the charity a Gold Seal of Transparency. 

“By acting in solidarity, we can meet the challenges to women’s and girls’ sexual and reproductive health and rights with creativity and resilience.”

Fos Feminista

Fos Feminista fights for women’s health by partnering with organizations that work to advance sexual and reproductive health for marginalized women, girls, and gender-diverse people. For example, they partnered with APROFAM in Guatemala to create youth sexual education programs and provide mobile healthcare services to women in rural areas. They also partnered with GIWYN in Nigeria to support their Miss Rosy Hotline, which provides free, reliable information about reproductive health and rights. Additionally, they partner with advocacy organizations to advance policies that support sexual and reproductive health rights worldwide.

Since their founding, Fos Feminista has aligned with over 220 organizations in more than 40 countries to improve sexual and reproductive healthcare for women around the world. For example, in 2021, they contributed to 64 legislative, policy, and judicial reforms in support of sexual and reproductive health, such as the decriminalization of abortion in Mexico and the revocation of the Global Gag Rule in the U.S. In the same year, their partners provided more than 25 million sexual and reproductive health services, including contraceptive care for over 8,000 migrant women in Venezuela and Columbia and more than 30,000 calls to the Miss Rosy Hotline in Nigeria.

You can donate to Fos Feminista via their website. You can also stay up-to-date on their accomplishments, and reach out to their network of partners for volunteer opportunities.

Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation: A Legacy of Hope

The Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation was founded in 1982 by Nancy G. Brinker to support breast cancer patients after her sister, Susan G. Komen lost her battle with the disease. Today, they are the world’s largest nonprofit source of funding for the fight against breast cancer.

Charity Navigator gives the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation a 3-star rating. GuideStar gives the charity a Gold Seal of Transparency. 

“Where the end of breast cancer begins.”

Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation

The Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation fights for the health of all women with breast cancer through community health initiatives, global outreach, and advocacy. For example, their primary health equity initiative, Stand for H.E.R.- A Health Equity Revolution takes a multi-faceted approach to eliminating disparities in late-stage diagnosis and mortality rates between black and white women, especially in low-income, metropolitan areas. Furthermore, they offer free patient navigation training to professionals working with black patients and increase access to genetic counseling and testing services.

Since their founding, the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation has invested more than $2.3 billion in patient support services, serving millions of patients in over 60 countries. For example, in 2022 alone, they invested over $7.7 million in community health programs to remove barriers to care in underserved communities. In the same year, they endorsed the Improving Social Determinants of Health Act, which addresses the social, economic, and environmental factors that drive health inequity.

You can donate to Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation via their website. You can also fundraise through one of their events, such as a race or walk, or a pickleball tournament. In addition, you can join their advocacy efforts.

StrongMinds: Innovating Mental Health Care for Women in Africa

StrongMinds was founded in 2013 by Sean Mayberry. While implementing HIV/AIDS and Malaria programs in Africa, he recognized the need for targeted mental health services for women. Today, they are the only organization scaling a cost-effective solution to the depression epidemic amongst women in Africa.

Charity Navigator gives StrongMinds a 4-star rating. GuideStar gives the charity a Platinum Seal of Transparency. 

“When you invest in mental health, you invest in human resilience.”

StrongMinds

StrongMinds fights for the mental health of women in Africa by providing peer-to-peer therapy, public education, and partnering with like-minded organizations. By utilizing Group Interpersonal Therapy, they provide women with a safe space to discuss depression triggers and solutions and connect with other women experiencing depression. To ensure that their model is sustainable and cost-effective, StrongMinds trains members of local communities, including former clients, to lead sessions on their own.

Since their inception, StongMinds has helped over 1.25 million women and their families lead happier, more fulfilling lives. In 2023, they expanded their reach to include 3 additional African countries: Ethiopia, Kenya, and South Africa. Due to the scalability of their model, they are considered one of the most effective charities in the world.

You can make a monetary donation to StrongMinds via their website. You can also support the charity by starting a fundraiser.

American Heart Association: Action for Women’s Heart Health

The American Heart Association was founded in 1924 by a group of six cardiologists to conduct research into prevention strategies and treatments for heart disease. Today, they are an international organization dedicated to improving heart health and tackling healthcare inequality.

Charity Navigator gives the American Heart Association a 4-star rating. GuideStar gives the charity a Platinum Seal of Transparency. 

“Life is why.”

American Heart Association

The American Heart Association fights for women’s health by empowering them to take control of their heart health and eliminating disparities in healthcare. 

For example, through their Go Red for Women initiative, they provide resources focused on educating women about their heart health and preventing heart disease, including information on evaluating heart disease risk factors and tips for healthy living. Furthermore, they work to improve Medicaid expansion for under-resourced populations, including pregnant women, women of color, and women in rural communities. 

Since their founding, the American Heart Association has invested more than $5 billion in heart health research, leading to a 15.1% reduction in deaths from heart disease since 2018. They have also made significant strides toward their health equity goals. For example, they have invested more than $114 million in new research to improve health equity, including $20 million to focus on how social and economic factors contribute to heart disease in pregnant women. Furthermore, they launched their Intelligo Professional Learning Hub, which includes free courses on improving health equity.

You can make a one-time donation to the American Heart Association via their website, or register to give monthly. You can also join their Go Red for Women initiative, support the charity by volunteering, or participate in an event in your local community.

March of Dimes: Healthy Mothers, Healthy Babies

March of Dimes was founded in 1938 as the National Foundation for Infantile Paralysis by Franklin D. Roosevelt in response to the Polio epidemic. Today, they are the leading organization dedicated to the health of all moms and babies.

Charity Navigator gives the March of Dimes a 2-star rating due to the amount of money they spend on their programs. GuideStar gives the charity a Platinum Seal of Transparency. 

“Fighting for the health of all moms and babies.”

March of Dimes

March of Dimes fights for the health of women through research, education, and advocacy. For example, their Mamagenda for #BlanketChange campaign raises awareness about the maternal healthcare crisis in the US. The campaign focuses on increasing health equity, improving access to care, and expanding research to help women become and stay healthy before, during, and after pregnancy. Furthermore, they utilize mobile health centers to bring education, support, and healthcare directly to women facing obstacles to care, like living in a rural community or being under-insured.

Since their founding, March of Dimes has played a significant role in shaping national and state policies that impact the health of women, children, and infants in the US. For example, in 2021, they supported the American Rescue Plan Act, which extends postpartum Medicaid coverage for up to 12 months. They have also funded vital medical breakthroughs, including the polio vaccine and the first bone marrow transplant to correct a congenital disability. Their largest fundraiser, March for Babies, has generated over $1.8 billion to support their mission since 1970. 

You can donate to March of Dimes via their website. You can also volunteer locally or create your own fundraiser.

SeekHer Foundation: Bridging the Gender Gap of Mental Health Treatment

The SeekHer Foundation was founded in 2021 by Monica Mo. After suffering a mental breakdown, Mo recognized the need for an organization that focused on mental health issues unique to women. Today, the foundation supports women’s mental health through advocacy and empowerment. 

The SeekHer Foundation is a charitable project supported by the Social Good Fund, which receives a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator. The fund also holds the Silver Seal of Transparency from GuideStar.

“Powering women for the greater good.”

The SeekHer Foundation

The SeekHer Foundation fights for women’s mental health through advocacy campaigns, research, and funding support. For example, their #WeHearHer Advocacy Council brings together small businesses, non-profits, and corporations to identify and apply actionable solutions to improve the state of women’s mental health. Furthermore, through their body image campaign, they collaborate with healthcare providers, educators, and mentors to promote body inclusivity among young women. In addition, their self-care advocacy campaign provides resources for women to prioritize their wellness.

Since their founding, the SeekHer Foundation has provided mental health resources and self-care tools to over 3,600 students and connected over 212,000 women with wellness resources. For example, in 2021, they launched SeekHer Shift, a survey initiative that engaged over 1,100 women across the US and identified the most pressing challenges to women’s mental health to guide future support efforts.

You can donate to the SeekHer Foundation via their website. You can also host a school fundraiser, start a giveback initiative, or apply to be a SeekHer Scholar.

How Can You Select the Best Charities to Support?

The charities on the list are, we deem, the best charities fighting for women’s health. However, you may have a particular charity you want to support. Let’s look at what you can do to ensure your contribution has the most significant impact.

• Check out the charity website. Charities that are worthy of your donations are transparent in their mission and their figures. Familiarise yourself with their history, mission, and values. Their website usually is the best place to start.
• Identify the charity’s mission. Without a goal, the charity is likely to fail. If the charity’s mission isn’t clear, it’s probably worth looking for a charity that does have a clear mission. 
• Check if the charity has measurable goals. An effective charity has clear goals. You want to know your donation will help the charity reach its goals. But if it doesn’t have targets, it’s likely to fail or squander your gift. The charity should be able to account for its spending and supply evidence of the work they do.
• Assess the successes or goals the charity has achieved. You wouldn’t invest in a business if it kept missing its targets. In the same way, charities are like this too. If no one is assessing a charity’s progress in reaching its targets, the chances are they’re not making a substantial positive change.
• Check the charity’s financials and stats. Trustworthy organizations will publish financial statements and reports each year. Some might be exempt from having to do so, but they should be able to provide them to public members who are interested in donating.
• Locate sources who work with or benefit from the charity. Word of mouth and first-hand experience of a charity’s work lets you know the charity’s quality. If you’re able to do so, check out the charity for yourself or speak to someone familiar with it. This way, your donation will go to the right place. 

How Can You Best Support These Charities?

After you’ve made your decision, it’s time for you to decide on how you’d like to help the charities you’ve chosen. Check how you can help – each charity runs specific programs that have unique aims. Find out what the aim of such programs is and whether they are right for you. 

Here are a few ways you can help your chosen charity:

• Donate money. You can find donation pages on the websites of most charities. Your donation can be a one-time payment, or you can set it to be deducted regularly at different intervals. You can mostly pay via credit card, but some charities also take PayPal or Bitcoin payments.
• Buy their official merchandise. The charities can also raise money by selling merchandise. So, you can support them by buying the mugs, shirts, caps, pens, pencils, and any other such items they may be selling. Ideally, you should buy as much as you can to share and spread the word about the charity’s activities.
• Engage in volunteer work. As you’ve seen from our descriptions above, some charities engage in a lot of local and grassroots programs. You can help by taking on and organizing the program in your local area.
• Help their fundraising efforts. You can spread the word about the charity in your workplace, school, church, etc., and hold creative fundraising drives on social media or offline within your small circles.
• Share their stories. Most charities have compelling stories that you can share with your audience to attract more people to the cause.

Final Thoughts

Now it is up to you to select the charity that resonates most with you. And whichever charity you end up choosing and contributing to, we are sure that they will immensely appreciate your support. Hopefully, the information within this article has made this selection process a bit easier for you to support charities dedicated to fighting for women’s health – based on the causes that matter most to you.

Stay impactful,

PS: Finally, I want to leave you with a thought-provoking TED talk from Dan Pallotta, a leading philanthropic activist and fundraiser, about what is wrong with the way we think about charities – and what we can do about it:

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