Hi family and friends,

Tomorrow, I am launching a very special project. Just a few weeks ago, God spoke to me (very clearly) and instructed me to make an impact through my experience as a NICU mom (x2). 

When God says move, I tend to move fast! I’m excited to share that tomorrow I’m planning to announce the launch of The Elaine Symone Foundation, a nonprofit organization committed to providing advocacy, support, and resources for NICU families of color. Through family advocates, resources & support, and information & assistance, we help ensure families of color receive high-quality care in the NICU. 

On January 2, 2021, I gave birth to Grace Elaine at 35 weeks, unable to breathe on her own. The NICU journey was the most challenging and frightening experience I had ever faced as a parent. 

And then on September 19, 2022, I gave birth to Joy Symone at 32 weeks. Unfortunately, the same fears and challenges left me lost and shattered as I navigated what felt like a never-ending journey to get my daughter home safely.

I’m grateful for the incredible medical staff, access, supportive friends and family, and frankly, privilege, that made our time in the NICU a bit more bearable. Unfortunately, this isn’t the case for most families of color. Babies born to women of color typically receive poorer care in the NICU compared with white newborns, premature baby death rates tend to be higher in "minority-serving" NICUs, and overall families of color tend to be less satisfied with their NICU experience.

It became my personal mission to do more. I simply ask for your prayers that I hear God’s voice and direction as I strive to make a difference through this endeavor, but if you have it in your heart to do more, here’s how you can help:

  1. Follow us on Instagram @theelainesymonefoundation

  2. Check out the donation info below and give to our 2022 Holiday campaign:  Every dollar you give by Thursday at midnight will be used to purchase, create, and deliver holiday baskets to NICU families at the Matthews Medical Center & Presbyterian Medical Center in North Carolina, the same NICUs that cared for my babies. 

  3. Visit our website: ElaineSymoneFoundation.org | Sign up for important updates and learn more about upcoming events

  4. Share and help us spread the word: I’ve provided a few graphics and sample posts below to make this a bit easier. :)

Key Links:

Instagram: @theelainesymonefoundation

Website: www.theelainesymonefoundation.org 

Giving Campaign: https://www.elainesymonefoundation.org/donate

Social Media Graphics: Click here

Sample Social Media Language

  • Babies born to women of color typically receive poorer care in the NICU compared with white newborns, premature baby death rates tend to be higher in "minority-serving" NICUs, and overall families of color tend to be less satisfied with their NICU experience. 

  • The Elaine Symone Foundation, a nonprofit organization committed to providing advocacy, support, and resources for NICU families of color. Through family advocates, resources & support, and information & assistance, they help ensure families of color receive high-quality care in the NICU. 

  • Every dollar you give by Thursday at midnight will be used to purchase, create, and deliver holiday baskets to NICU families at the Matthews Medical Center & Presbyterian Medical Center in North Carolina.

  • Here’s how you can help:

    • Follow the foundation on Instagram @theelainesymonefoundation

    • Click the link below and give to the 2022 Holiday campaign:  Every dollar you give by Thursday at midnight will be used to purchase, create, and deliver holiday baskets to NICU families at the Matthews Medical Center & Presbyterian Medical Center in North Carolina.

    • Visit their website: ElaineSymoneFoundation.org | Sign up for important updates and learn more about upcoming events