Research shows that due to systemic inequities, families of color, particularly Black families, are disproportionately affected by gaps in maternal and neonatal care.

Here’s what the data tells us:

Differences in Care & Outcomes

• Babies born to women of color often receive lower-quality NICU care compared with white newborns.

• Preterm infant mortality rates tend to be higher in “minority-serving” NICUs.

• Life-saving interventions, like surfactant therapy for premature babies with underdeveloped lungs, are sometimes less consistently administered to Black infants.

Differences in Support

• Families of color report lower NICU satisfaction and fewer opportunities for bonding practices like kangaroo care (skin-to-skin contact).

• Studies show Black mothers are less likely to be breastfeeding at discharge, often due to limited education, encouragement, and lactation support.

Differences in Experience

• Many parents of color describe feeling unheard, dismissed, or overlooked during their NICU journey.

• Emotional strain can be intensified when families are balancing cultural, financial, or systemic barriers alongside the stress of caring for a medically fragile newborn.

These disparities are preventable, and together, we can help change the narrative.

Our Vision: A NICU Experience Where Every Family Thrives

We believe in a world where:

• Every baby receives high-quality, evidence-based, equitable care

• Every family feels supported, respected, and informed

• Parents are empowered to show up as advocates for their child

• Communities come together to lift up families facing hardship

• Disparities shrink because awareness, compassion, and support grow

We serve all families, because every family matters.

But we also intentionally show up for those who face the greatest barriers because equity requires action.

How We Live Out This Mission

Through our programs, partnerships, and support efforts, we walk beside families in the NICU and beyond by offering:

• Emotional and spiritual encouragement

• Financial assistance for essential needs

• Care packages and in-kind donations

• Education, advocacy, and resources

• Support for families facing hardship outside the NICU

• Partnerships with hospitals and community organizations

• Awareness-building around disparities in neonatal care

We are here to lighten the load, strengthen families, and ensure that no parent feels alone, not in the NICU, not after discharge, and not during seasons of crisis.

One Family at a Time: One Step Toward Change

Every act of support, a warm meal, a gas card, a listening ear, a prayer, or a donated holiday gift, makes a real difference.

Change happens one family at a time, and your support helps us make that difference possible.

Together, we are creating a more compassionate, equitable NICU experience for every family.