The Shades of Motherhood Network

Doula Workforce Development and Training Established in 2022, our doula workforce development and training initiative focused on training and empowering Black and Brown doulas. These skilled professionals extended prenatal and postpartum care to individuals within our community. Through comprehensive training, we aimed to enhance the quality and accessibility of care for expectant and new parents, specifically targeting underserved demographics.

Started in May 2023, the nutrition and wellness box program provides weekly boxes to birthing individuals in our community, expanding to Fathers and teen parents as well. The food is seasonal, nutrient dense, and sourced from local farmers. The recipes are catered towards prenatal and postpartum healing for the birthing person and the baby! With an emphasis on healing, our foods and recipes are actually ?soul food?, where we aim to heal through nutrition. Food is fuel. Food is also medicine. Recreating a healthy relationship with food during and after pregnancy not only helps the birthing person, it provides the best foundation for the baby to have a great life.

Our Community Educational Outreach initiatives have engaged over 400 individuals within our community. Programs such as Black Maternal Health Week, Black Breastfeeding, Health Equity discussions, Black Maternal Health Art Exhibits, health workshops, podcasts, and active social media platforms have been instrumental in disseminating crucial health-related information. These efforts have significantly contributed to raising awareness and promoting health equity within our community. These programs reflect our dedication to addressing critical healthcare needs, promoting inclusivity, and fostering a healthier, informed community. Through ongoing support and collaboration, we endeavor to further enhance these initiatives and positively impact the well-being of our community members.