YAKIMA, Wash. — A campaign by Planned Parenthood to save a program that provides family-planning services in welfare offices has apparently worked, for now.

The Community Service Office (CSO) Family Planning Nurse program, which houses 70 nurses statewide at 58 Department of Social and Health Services offices, will stay open through June. Previously, DSHS planned to shut down the service Jan. 30.

The compromise was reached by the department, Gov. Chris Gregoire’s office and

state legislative leaders.

“We are thankful that not only were the voices of supporters and clients heard but that the governor and leadership, along with DSHS, understand that it’s common sense to provide family planning services that save over four dollars in pregnancy care costs for every dollar spent,” said Elaine Rose, chief executive of Planned Parenthood Votes!, the lobbying arm of the organization.

Anna Franks, chief executive of Planned Parenthood of Central Washington, said supporters still have to work to include the program in the upcoming 2009-11 budget.

— Leah Beth Ward