Rochester families invited to attend community baby shower and panel discussion on doula care

Sen. Samra Brouk is hosting a Community Baby Shower and Panel Discussion on Doula Care Sunday, May 7, to provide information, resources, and supplies to new and growing families in Greater Rochester.

"Starting a family can be a time of great joy but also one that comes with new challenges," Brouk said. "Now more than ever, families in our community need support during and after pregnancy so that they can not only have healthy outcomes but have the ability to enjoy and cherish this special time."

Panelists include 

• Twylla Dillion, HealthConnectOne
• Celia McIntosh, Black Nurses Association
• Phyllis Sharp, Royalty Birth Services
• Adriana Lozada, Birthful

According to Brouk, Monroe County's maternal mortality rate is 40% worse than the state average. The maternal morbidity for Black mothers is 50% higher. 

Brouk hopes this event will help educate growing families and connect them with resources to lower these rates.

"The event will start with a panel discussion on doula care, and I hope that it sparks conversations for families about why they should consider using a doula," she said. "This is also an opportunity for families to share what their needs are, and how we can support them. I hope that this event will inspire more conversations about how we can better serve Rochester families and not only connect them with important resources but with each other."

More than thirty organizations will join Brouk at the community event.

"This is a beautiful community event that is a family friendly way to spend an afternoon with your neighbors," Brouk said. "I hope that families will come out and learn about what this community has to offer, as well as familiarize themselves with resources like doulas to support birthing people."

WHEN: Sunday, May 7, 2023, 1 p.m. - 4 p.m.

WHERE: Ryan R-Center, 530 Webster Ave., Rochester, NY 14609

Contact Robert Bell at: rlbell@gannett.com. Follow him on Twitter: @byrobbell & Instagram: @byrobbell.