It was an afternoon for moms and mothers-to-be to celebrate.
The SAY Detroit Family Health Clinic’s First Year Baby Shower had a little bit for everybody Saturday (May 16) at the Ernest T. Ford Recreation Center in Highland Park.
With an assist from First Year partner Royalty Birthing Services, more than three dozen participants received childbirth and postpartum care education, all in the name of improving maternal health for low-income mothers in Detroit. Between sessions, the women – some attending with family members – had the opportunity to exhale, relax, and prioritize self-care via the treatment services offered by CALM, as well as “shop’’ for new and donated items.
Nearly a dozen volunteers from SAY Detroit’s A Time to Help program helped run the event.
First Year was launched six years ago with support from the Zatkoff Family Legacy Fund, and the education and resource-based program – led by Alexis Harvey, SAY Clinic Community Health Worker – has grown to become a sisterhood for many in the community.
“I heard about it through my doula,’’ said Megan Brown, who’s pregnant with her first child and attended the event with her husband Deandre Brown. “It’s wonderful. There are resources but it also gives you a chance to share what you’re going through with Alexis and other moms.’’
In addition to the Zatkoff FLF, Royalty Birthing and CALM, we’re grateful to other sponsors and donors who helped make the baby shower special. They include: Kroger; The Whitney; Nino Salvaggio-Bloomfield; Victorias Cupcakes; Babylove’s Consignment; Dr. Samantha Cowing of CMG; and Sue Norander, Recreation Department Director, City of Highland Park.
