Portsmouth Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. set to host free community baby shower
Portsmouth, Va. (WAVY) — Expecting moms and new parents are invited to register for free a Community Baby Shower.
The event is April 27 from 11a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Portsmouth Department of Social Services, 1701 High St. in Portsmouth.
The Portsmouth Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. received a $3,000 grant to organize the event in partnership with the Portsmouth Department of Social Services and the Portsmouth Jewels of Hope Foundation.
“We have a lot of the elements of a regular baby shower. We’re going to have baby shower games and food. We’re going to give away raffles and items that mothers need. But we’re also going to educate them,” said Nakkia Gray, the organizer with Portsmouth Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. “We’re going to have doula’s, midwives, pediatricians, birth assistants, [and] lactation specialists. We’re going to build this community of people that moms need to really get them on the right foot for them to have healthy births.”
Nichole Wardlaw, a Certified Nurse Midwife and founder of Jamii Birth and Wellness, will offer insight on the resources her clinic offers.
“It’s not just the physical piece of what’s happening with the pregnancy, but also emotionally what’s going on with the birthing person or mom,” said Wardlaw.
Wardlaw was recently recognized as ‘Midwife of the Year’ during the Birth in Color Black Maternal Health Summit in Richmond, Virginia.
“Black Maternal Health is not just a week, it’s every day for us. The work continues. The fight continues… whether it’s sitting at the General Assembly talking to legislators or being in the community, doing baby showers to say, ‘Hey! We love you. We support you. Here’s some information to empower you’,” said Wardlaw.
Wardlaw said Portsmouth is considered a “toxic maternal zone,” following the 2019 closure of the birth center at Maryview Medical Center.
“There are no [civilian] deliveries in Portsmouth. However, we have these higher rates than any other place in this area. It’s very important for us to be able to tap into that and get that information out. To service the people who live in our community.”
The baby shower is free with 100 spots available. The first 50 people to register will be entered in a raffle for a stroller and car seat.
Sign up for the April 27th Community Baby Shower HERE
Urban Baby Beginnings held a community baby shower earlier this month, ahead of Black Maternal Health Week.
The Babies in Bloom event is scheduled to return in September.
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