Maternal Support & Education
At ITAVFoundation, we are committed to supporting the health and well-being of women of color (WOC), immigrants, and minority individuals who are pregnant or postpartum. Our mission is to provide a supportive and educational environment for everyone including teenagers, promoting healthy choices and offering essential support for those who may become pregnant.
It Starts With Education
We prioritize providing comprehensive education for teenagers on their bodies and reproductive health, recognizing the importance of equipping young individuals with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions about their health and well-being. Whether it’s access to prenatal care, childbirth preparation, or support during the postpartum period, we’re committed to providing a supportive and nurturing environment where individuals can receive the care and resources they need to strive.
Our Impact
Through the generous contributions of our donors and volunteers, ITAVFoundation has made a significant impact on the lives of pregnant and postpartum individuals in underserved communities. Here are some key highlights:
15,000+ Baby Items Collected: Through collective fundraising efforts, we have collected over 15,000 baby items, including clothes, diapers, wipes, and postpartum care packages. These essential items are distributed to low-income women of color, immigrants, and minority individuals, helping to alleviate financial burdens and ensure that every baby receives the care they deserve.
Personal Hygiene Drive: We have gathered over 10,000 personal hygiene products, actively supporting shelters and homeless centers by providing essential items to those in need. By addressing this basic need, we contribute to the dignity and well-being of individuals experiencing homelessness.
- Feminine Hygiene Drive (#EndPeriodPoverty): Through partnerships with schools and programs for women and young girls, we work to break the stigma surrounding period poverty. Our initiative has gathered over 5,000 menstrual hygiene products, ensuring that no one has to compromise their health or dignity due to a lack of access to menstrual hygiene products.
We are committed to supporting maternal wellness, promoting education, and addressing community needs. Working together, we’re creating real and lasting impacts in the lives of individuals and communities, empowering them to strive and succeed in meaningful ways.
WHAT IS PERIOD POVERTY?
Period poverty refers to the lack of access to menstrual products, hygiene facilities, and education about menstruation, particularly due to financial constraints. It affects individuals who are unable to afford or access basic menstrual hygiene products such as sanitary pads, tampons, or menstrual cups. Period poverty can result in individuals resorting to using unsafe alternatives like rags, toilet paper, or even going without proper menstrual hygiene products altogether, which can lead to health issues and discomfort. Period poverty also extends beyond access to products, encompassing factors such as inadequate sanitation facilities, stigma, and limited education about menstruation. It disproportionately affects marginalized communities, including low-income individuals, homeless populations, and those living in areas with limited resources or infrastructure. Addressing period poverty involves ensuring access to affordable menstrual products, promoting menstrual hygiene education, and tackling the underlying social and economic factors that contribute to inequality in access to menstrual health resources.
Get Involved
You can make a difference in the lives of pregnant and postpartum individuals in underserved communities, as well as contribute to preventing teen pregnancy.
Here’s how you can get involved:
Your financial contributions enable us to continue providing essential support through the Micro Grant Program SHE/SHEO and fund our Teen Pregnancy Education Initiative. Every donation, no matter the size, makes a difference.
Join us in our efforts to collect baby items, organize fundraising events, or support outreach initiatives. Your time and expertise are invaluable in helping us expand our reach and impact.
Share our mission with your friends, family, and community. By raising awareness about the challenges faced by pregnant and postpartum individuals and the importance of comprehensive sex education, we can work together to create a more supportive and equitable society.
Together, we can make a difference in the lives of women of color, immigrants, and minority individuals, and empower young people to make healthy choices for themselves and their futures.
UPCOMING EVENT
Maternal Support and Education Day
Join us for Maternal Support and Education Day, a transformative event dedicated to providing comprehensive support, resources, and education to expectant individuals, with a focus on black, LGBTQ+, and immigrant maternal wellness in the Philadelphia Tri-State Community.
DATE: JULY 20, 2024
LOCATION: 126 LEVERINGTON AVE, PHILADELPHIA PA 19127
TIME: 12PM-5PM
In addition to the comprehensive support, education, and community pampering offered during Maternal Support and Education Day, we are also excited to announce that we will be hosting a community baby shower. This baby shower will provide an opportunity for expectant individuals and veteran parents to come together in celebration of new life and parenthood.