Newark community baby shower supports mothers during Black Maternal Health Week
Event connects expecting mothers with resources, gifts, and support - no one leaves empty-handed.
Dozens of mothers and expecting mothers gathered in Newark Saturday for a community baby shower aimed at more than celebration.
It was about support, education and access to care.
The Montclair chapter of Delta Sigma Theta alongside several community organizations focused on maternal and child health hosted the event during Black Maternal Health Week.
Organizers said the baby shower has become a signature event for the chapter. Its hosted the event in different cities for the past five years and has brought together resources and support for families across New Jersey.
“A party with a purpose,” said Nina Guercio, one of the event's organizers. “We have some of the elements, the food, diapers and gifts.”
Beyond games and raffles, the event connected attendees with services such as doulas, in-home visits and health resources. These included lead testing and vaccinations. Multiple organizations participated to provide information aimed to help mothers have safer pregnancies and births.
Organizers said community support plays a big role in making the event possible. Donations, including a diaper drive and baby gifts, helped ensure that no one left empty-handed.
The event is also designed to be inclusive, open to any expecting mother without income requirements or background restrictions.
“It’s a celebration, but it’s also about awareness,” said Mariekarl Vilceus-Talty, CEO of the Partnership for Maternal and Child Health, who was a partner of the event. “The data is clear that there is a huge disparity when it comes to mortality and morbidity within the African American community.”
The resources made a lasting impact for many attendees, especially for those preparing for life after bringing their baby home.
Organizers said they plan to continue to expand the event to reach more communities in the years ahead.
