MATERNAL & INFANT HEALTH
Behind each human is a mother that influenced every aspect of their being. We believe that mothers are the foundation of any society—they are the most influential educators, shaping our world from the very beginning of life. Supporting mothers, babies, and children is one of the most effective ways to help support a community. Mothers who have their needs met are able to nourish and guide their children and help them thrive as adults.
We are on a mission to help support the health of mothers and babies during pregnancy, birth, and post-childbirth. The majority of Hadza women give birth in the bush, following ancestral tradition and relying on elders to assist. Many Hadza have no way of getting to a hospital in the event of emergency and often go their whole pregnancy without seeing a doctor. In the bush, the risk of complication is high for mother and baby, especially during the first year of life.
Currently, Meleka is supporting women, babies, and their families in the following areas:
Helping facilitate and cover the cost of doctors appointments and hospital visits for routine and emergency care.
Hosting midwife-led educational seminars for Hadza camps in order to better equip women and their families for a healthy pregnancy, birth, and post-birth period.
Providing care packages for pregnant women and families with newborns. These care packages include emergency birthing supplies such as medical gloves, sterile cotton, and cord clamps. We also provide practical necessities for both mother and baby such as baby blankets, baby clothes, baby carriers, baby lotion, women’s underwear, sanitary pads, laundry soap, etc.
Monitoring and checking up on new mothers/babies at regular intervals.
Support our maternal health initiative directly through donation.
