I have the privilege of knowing Joy Spencer for many years now, the remarkable Executive Director of Equity Before Birth. What Joy does for our community is truly inspiring and life-changing.
Why Another Charity?Equity Before Birth is not just another charity. It’s an organization that centers Black families and eliminates the financial barriers they face while seeking pregnancy-related care. The work Joy and her team do is crucial—they empower families through direct cash assistance, promoting autonomy, and they sustain Black birth workers and educators by paying them fair market rates for their invaluable services.
What makes Equity Before Birth stand out is its dual focus on economic empowerment and racial equity in the maternal health sector. Their mission is carried out through three key pillars: Sponsorship, Partnership, and Fundraising.
Sponsorship provide comprehensive support and paid parental leave to Black birthing people, increasing the chances of survival for both mothers and babies. This allows families to focus on their physical and mental health during this critical time, preventing them from sinking into poverty due to a lack of workplace benefits. By removing financial barriers, Equity Before Birth improves the mental and physical health of both mother and child, potentially breaking cycles of trauma for generations to come.
Partnerships are the cornerstone of how Equity Before Birth delivers professional services. Unlike larger organizations that often overlook grassroots efforts, Equity Before Birth is committed to partnering with Black-led, community-based organizations that are already doing phenomenal work. They ensure these organizations are paid equitably for their services, fostering collaboration rather than competition. Together, we are stronger and more effective.
Fundraising is essential to sustaining this vital work. Every individual donation directly supports families, making it possible for Equity Before Birth to continue their impactful mission.
Joy Spencer and Equity Before Birth are making a profound difference in our community. Their work is a testament to what can be achieved when we come together to support those who need it most.
For more information contact Joy Spencer
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