Our Mission
Prairie State Access Fund (Prairie Fund) is a new initiative of Michael Reese Health Trust created to sustain and strengthen the reproductive and sexual health ecosystem in Illinois to ensure access for all.
As one of the few states in the Midwest protecting the right to comprehensive reproductive healthcare, Illinois plays a critical role in meeting needs for both “the patient” and “the clinic.”
Prairie State Access Fund connects donor support with organizations protecting and expanding reproductive and sexual health access in Chicago and across Illinois. We provide flexible funding so they can act fast, close urgent gaps, and deliver care with dignity.
Grounded in equity and reproductive justice, we help maintain Illinois’ status as a safe and dependable refuge for reproductive health.
Our Goals
Sustain Clinics Across Illinois
We complement public investments by filling in gaps and ensuring clinics have what they need to stay open, staffed, and responsive to urgent needs. Prairie Fund ensures Illinois maintains the capacity to deliver care to anyone seeking sexual and reproductive healthcare in the state.
Champion Reproductive Justice
While meeting immediate needs for access to sexual and reproductive services, Prairie Fund is committed to advancing a long-term vision rooted in reproductive justice that centers communities and builds sustainable systems of care.
Act as a Capacity Building Partner
Serve as a values-aligned collaborative partner for pooled philanthropic resources, ensuring that funds are channeled efficiently, equitably, and without duplicating or disrupting existing work in the field.
Elevate Community, Provider, and Governmental Voices
Establish a Steering Committee for Prairie Fund, and regularly consult with Illinois healthcare providers, advocates, government stakeholders, and philanthropic partners to ensure funding strategies are grounded, transparent, and responsive to the broader health ecosystem. We aim to uplift the leaders in this movement who have made Illinois the safe haven it is.
Foster Collaboration and Shared Power
Work in strategic coordination — not competition — with subject matter experts, peer organizations, funders, and grantee partners to ensure collective progress, avoid resource conflicts, and promote mutual respect across the sector.
Prairie State Access Fund seeks to raise $5M between now and the end of 2026. Please reach out to Leah Israel and Camille Salcetti at philanthropy@liletteadvisors.com for more information.