Sigma Gamma Rho’s seeks donations for 'Project Cradle Care' to support maternal health

SOUTH BEND, Ind. -- Maternal and infant Health disparities continue to challenge communities nationwide and in Michiana.

“Project Cradle Care” is a community initiative that was created due to a lack of resources, availability, and education for mothers that have been affected by maternal disparities.

The South Bend Iota XI Sigma Alumni Chapter and their Philo affiliate are competing against different chapters for who can collect the most baby bottles.

Every chapter will be required to bring in 60 bottles, but they are confident the community will help them raise more to make an impact on Michiana.

All financial contributions will be donated to March of Dimes in support of helping families during pregnancy.

Donation will be accepted at the following locations:

• Walmart on Ireland Road
• Mt. Carmel Missionary Church
• The Islamic Society of Michiana
• Nurse Family Partnership
• Voyant Beauty

According to Indiana researchers, in 2020, 208 black women died during birth per 100,000 people, compared to 108 white women and 71 Latina women.

Sherika Brown, Vice President of the Sigma Gamma Rho Iota XI Sigma Alumni Chapter, says the project will provide education and resources to support mothers in underserved communities to ensure healthy pregnancies and better outcomes for babies and mothers.

“Project Cradle Care stemmed out of an old essential program that we had which was Project Reassurance, and so what Project Reassurance did was focus on young teen moms who probably didn’t have the education and the resources to know to go out you have to see the doctor every month, you have to get your prenatal vitamins, you have to get those type of items so that to ensure your baby's health. But now the tables have turned and we're seeing a lot of Black maternal health issues," said Brown.

The Indiana Maternal Mortality Review Committee says "Project Cradle Care" recognizes the importance of mental, emotional, and physical health, all being key to a healthy pregnancy.

Maternal deaths in Indiana in 2024 are expected to meet 2023’s numbers where 650 mothers died.

To combat these numbers and raise awareness locally the Iota XI Sigma Alumni Chapter in South Bend collects brand new baby bottles and items with “Project Cradle Care.”

“I think it's all in our motto which is greater service, greater progress without providing a service to your community, what do you stand for and so it’s an emotional commitment, it’s a financial commitment it’s a social commitment and it’s almost like making a deposit into your bank account when you're making a deposit into your community," said Brown.

You can visit the sorority's website or scan the QR code on their flyer to make a cash donation or to donate directly visit any of their drop-off locations.