Mercy Alumni Monthly Sustainers Fellowship

Dear Alumni Sustainers,

Your faithful donations not only fund ongoing care for mothers in babies in birth centers, but also provide for outreach beyond the birth centers.  

Recently Nerissa, the head midwife and owner of a birth center we support, sent an exciting report.  In a location adjacent to Nerissa's community, pregnant women often give birth unattended at home because there are few midwives, and families don't realize the importance of having a trained attendant at every birth. Nerissa had a vision for providing education to these pregnant mothers by hosting a 'Buntis (pregnant) Party.' Filipinos love a good party! She collaborated with the local government midwife and also with local leaders to publicize the party she would host, and her target of 50 participants was met. Nerissa also coordinated with several Barangay Health Workers to promote this needed event.   

At the party, the participants were given packed meals, diapers, wipes, baby hats and prizes from a raffle.  Nerissa and the government midwife provided entertaining teaching about vaccinations, The 12 ICI Steps to Safe and Respectful Mother-Baby-Family Care, breastfeeding and the First 1,000 Days.  These were new ideas to many who came since they often do not have care during their pregnancy and may give birth at home unattended.  The participants were so thankful for the opportunity to learn many new things and appreciated the gifts.  This new knowledge can empower them to offer their babies the best start in life and Nerissa hopes that many will choose to give birth with a trained attendant.  

Thank you for making this possible! You are a valuable part of our team!