Family and Youth Services Gives Birth to New Program

IRC Phoenix’s Family and Youth Services Department was recently awarded funding from the March of Dimes and Arizona First Things First to assist pregnant women and those that have just given birth. In collaboration with St. Joseph Hospital’s Community Family Practice, the project will focus on reducing many barriers faced by refugee mothers when accessing prenatal care, incorporating their own cultural beliefs while providing a firm understanding of prenatal care importance. 50 expectant moms are currently enrolled and through their participation, they will better understand the American health care system to ensure that they continue to seek medical attention for their children after birth.

Please consider supporting a new mother and child through a gift card, cash or in-kind donation. IRC is accepting gift cards from Babies R Us, Wal-Mart and Target, as well as in-kind donations of cribs and infant car seats. Other baby items such as cloth diapers, gently used or new baby clothes, blankets, bottles and pacifiers are also appreciated. IRC is hosting several volunteer groups to make “New Baby Baskets” for the participants, and any baby items will be useful to these new mothers.

To get involved or to make a contribution, please contact Monica Barrows, Development Manager, at monicab@theIRC.org or by phone at 602.433.2440 ext. 243.