GALS (Giving Austin Labor Support)is an organization dedicated to ensuring no one gives birth alone. Over 65 trained birth support companions and doulas provide free emotional, physical and informational support to those who are under-supported in order to improve birth outcomes and empower birthing individuals and their families. GALS has provided a non-judgemental presence and support for all birthing preferences and locations — hospital, birth center or home — for the last 10 years. GALS also works with medical providers and family members to reduce traumatic births (for example:: helping to slow down decision making to encourage informed consent).

Through three programs, GALS has assisted over 400 families in the transition to parenthood.

On-Call Program

• Birth Support Companions go to anyone who needs support in labor in the Austin area and donate an average of 10 hours per birth.

Prenatal Doula Program

• Provides traditional doula support to individuals with low income and an inability to pay for doula services out-of-pocket. Doula support includes 2 prenatal visits, on call support spanning up to 4 weeks, staying the entirety of the birth with an additional two hours postpartum, a postpartum visit, and 24/7 phone/email support.

Jail Support Program (TCSO)

• Provides prenatal education and support groups twice monthly to incarcerated pregnant people of Travis County Correctional Complex. Birth support is provided for anyone who gives birth while incarcerated, and includes a postpartum follow up at the jail.