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Message ROOTS & WINGSPerinatal Support DirectoryA GUIDE FOR NEW AND EXPECTING PARENTS A sense of wholeness—offering notjust information, but a balance ofgrounding care and future-facingempowerment.You are supported. You can grow.You are not alone.Created ByOnyx Sledge - Atkins

010302Table of CONTENTS01It is the reader’s first experience—offering comfort, clarity, and reassurance from the very beginningWelcome International initiatives, organizations, and collaborativeplatforms that work across borders to ensure equitable,informed, and compassionate care for individuals and familiesduring pregnancy, birth, and the postpartum period.Mental Health & Emotional WellbeingGlobal Perinatal Support NetworksA compassionate, evidence-informed resource designed tohelp parents understand and navigate the emotional changesand challenges that can accompany pregnancy, childbirth,and the postpartum period.

04060507 a practical and empowering section designed to inform,equip, and inspire. It bridges the gap between personalunderstanding and systemic change, offering tools to helpfamilies make informed decisions—and to advocate for bettercare in their communities.Educational & Advocacy Tools02Celebrates the diversity of parenthood by connecting familieswith resources tailored to their unique identities, livedexperiences, and needs. This page uplifts the truth that inclusivecare is not optional—it is essential.Specialized & Inclusive SupportHome Visiting & Community-Based Programs features essential services that bring care, education, andencouragement directly into the homes and neighborhoodsof new and expecting families. Highlights the heart of perinatal wellness: connection.It showcases networks and programs where parents andcaregivers can share stories, ask questions, and receiveencouragement from people who truly understand whatthey’re going through. Peer Support & Community Programs

Giver of life, love, and strength—We lift up all those who are growing life within them, those who are preparing to meet their child, and those who are already nurturing new life with tender care.Wrap them in peace when uncertainty rises. Remind them they are not alone in their fears, their hopes, or theirhealing. Grant them rest when the nights are long and courage when the days feel heavy.Bless the hands that comfort, the hearts that hold space, and the voices that speak truth and love in moments of doubt. Surround each parent with a circle of care— family, friends, professionals, and community who will walk beside them in compassion and support.May every parent feel rooted in their strength and uplifted in their becoming. Let joy find them in small moments. Let healing come gently, and in time. Let love be the language that carries them forward.Amen.Dear Creator

Becoming a parent is one of life’s most profoundjourneys—filled with love, challenges, transformation,and growth. Whether you are expecting your first childor navigating life with a newborn, it’s natural to needsupport, guidance, and reassurance along the way.WelcomeWe hope this catalog empowers you, comforts you, andreminds you that you're not alone—there is a strongnetwork of professionals, organizations, and fellowparents ready to support you every step of the way. With care and community, Onyx Sledge - Atkins04

Finding What you Need in 3 Steps Step One: How are you feeling today?choose the statement that feels mostly like youI’m struggling and I need help now Crisis and Immediate Help Section Pg 39I just found out I’m pregnant. What should I know?Pregnancy Wellness and First StepsI’m worried about my mental health or my partnerMental Health and Emotional WellbeingI want resources for my unique identity or situation Inclusive and Specialized Support I want to build my support networkStep Two: Use the Icons below Step Three:Keep Notes or Question for your recordsOR Send to Osledge@mompv.today for more help

GLOBAL PERINATALSUPPORT NETWORKSRoots“Symbolize stability, connection, and foundation. In perinatal care, this refers to:Building a strong, informed start to the parenting journeyGrounding parents in support systems, knowledge, and communityHonoring cultural identity, family traditions, andvalues”06

Their services include:Free virtual support groups in English and SpanishA 24/7 HelpLine: 1-800-944-4773 (voice/text)An international provider directoryAND Educational materials for parents and professionals07Postpartum Support International (PSI)PSI is a leading global organization offeringmultilingual resources, peer support groups, andprofessional referrals for perinatal mental health. https://postpartum.net/get-help/

BabyCenter operates region-specific websites in over nine countries,offering pregnancy and parenting content in seven languages. BabyCenter08 Pregnancy & Baby InformationWeek-by-week pregnancy guides: Learn about fetal development,physical changes, and what to expect each week.Baby development tracker: Helps monitor a child’s physical andcognitive milestones up to age 8.Checklists & tools: Birth plan creators, baby name finders, kick counttrackers, contraction timers, and due date calculators. Emotional & Mental Health SupportOffers advice on postpartum depression, anxiety, body image, and transitioning into parenthood.Dedicated sections for mental health and self-care. Community ForumsMassive online forums organized by birth month, parenting stage, health issues, and interests.Parents can share real-time experiences, ask questions, and offersupport.https://www.babycenter.com/

Maternal Mental Health Now a Los Angeles-based nonprofitorganization dedicated to improving the emotional well-being ofindividuals during pregnancy and the postpartum period. Their mission is to eliminate barriers to the prevention, screening,and treatment of perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, with a focuson equity and cultural responsiveness. https://maternalmentalhealthnow.orgMaternal Mental Health Now09MMHN offers an extensive toolkit designed for healthcareproviders and caregivers. This resource includes over 100pages of information on risk factors, symptoms,prevention, screening, intervention, and treatment ofperinatal depression and related mood disorders. It alsoprovides patient handouts and materials available inSpanish.MMHN is committed to providing access toup-to-date empirical research articles forhealthcare providers and the families theyserve. They also support local research studiesfocusing on maternal mental health,recognizing the dynamic nature of this field.YourTiming isPerfect, GiveYourself aLittle Time

WingsRepresent growth, independence, and resilience. In this context, wings stand for:Empowering parents to make confident, informed choicesNurturing emotional and mental well-beingSupporting the development of both parent and child as they evolve MENTAL HEALTH &EMOTIONAL WELLBEING10

This free, confidential hotline provides 24/7 support inEnglish and Spanish for pregnant and postpartum individuals.Trained counselors offer immediate assistance and canconnect callers to local resources.National Maternal Mental Health Hotline11https://mchb.hrsa.gov/programs-impact/national-maternal-mental-health-hotlineBased in New York, the Seleni Institute provides healthcare,counseling, support groups, and training focused on maternalmental health. Their services address issues such as pre-pregnancy,pregnancy, infertility, miscarriage, stillbirth, menopause, parenting,and child loss.Seleni Institute (USA)https://seleni.org/advice-supportPhone: 1-833-TLC-MAMA (1-833-852-6262)

A statewide program offering free consultation and training forhealthcare providers, along with resources for families dealing withperinatal mental health and substance use disorders. They providetoolkits on perinatal anxiety and suicide risk assessment.NC Maternal Mental Health MATTERS12https://www.med.unc.edu/ncmatters/provider-resources/?Specializes in outpatient therapy for pregnant and postpartumindividuals, offering walk-in mental health screenings and tailoredsupport services.Anchor Perinatal Wellness(Raleigh)https://www.anchorperinatal.com/?

Located in New York City, The Motherhood Center offers clinicaltreatment for perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, includingtherapy and support groups. They emphasize the importance ofcommunity in postpartum depression care The Motherhood Center (New York)13https://themotherhoodcenter.com/NAMI provides a guide designed to support all expecting and newparents, including teens, young mothers, nonbinary andtransgender individuals, and non-birthing partners. National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)https://www.nami.org/your-journey/maternal-new-parent-mental-health/

Provides comprehensive care for mood and anxiety disordersduring and after pregnancy, including therapy and support forconditions like postpartum depression and anxiety.Atrium Health Maternal WellnessProgram (Charlotte)14https://atriumhealth.org/medical-services/prevention-wellness/behavioral-health/maternal-wellness-programOffers behavioral health counseling and support groups for mothersexperiencing perinatal mood disorders, such as postpartumdepression and anxiety. Wayne UNC Health Care(Goldsboro)https://www.wayneunc.org/care-treatment/womens/maternal-mental-health/?

Recommended Reading15Perinatal Mental Health: The EPDS ManualDescription: Guide on using the Edinburgh PostnatalDepression Scale for screening.Price: $25.94https://www.verywellmind.com/postpartum-depression-coping-through-community-paige-bellenbaum-8382656?Postnatal Depression and Maternal Mental Health: A HandbookDescription: Handbook addressing postnatal depressionand strategies for support.Price: $27.00 https://shop.tertulia.com/products/9781910366295?variant=42520276533479Postpartum Depression and Anxiety: A Self-Help Guide for MothersDescription: Self-help guide offering coping strategies forpostpartum depression and anxiety.Price: $20.25https://booksby.splitshops.com/products/postpartum-depression-and-anxiety-a-self-help-guide-for-mothers-paperback?variant=42129148444807

Affirmations for Pregnancy My body knows how to nourish and grow this baby.I trust the process of pregnancy and birth.Each day, I become more prepared to welcome my child.I am strong, capable, and full of life.I honor my changing body with compassion and gratitude.SPECIALIZED & INCLUSIVE SUPPORT16

17Perinatal Hospice & Palliative CareProvidence Health – PerinatalPalliative Care (Various Locations)Provides support and education to families during pregnancy, delivery,and aftercare when facing serious medical conditions in the baby.UNC Perinatal Palliative Care Program – Chapel HillThis comprehensive resource lists over 300 programsnationwide, providing information for both families andhealthcare providersThe University of North Carolina offers a comprehensive perinatalpalliative care program for families facing life-limiting prenataldiagnoses. Services include individualized birth planning, emotional andspiritual support, and extended follow-up care for up to a year after loss.https://www.perinatalhospice.org/list-of-programshttps://www.providence.org/services/perinatal-palliative-care?https://www.mombaby.org/perinatal-palliative-care/

183HC Pediatric Hospice Care – Eastern NCVIA Health Partners – KidsPath ProgramServing the Charlotte area, VIA Health Partners' KidsPath programoffers specialized pediatric and perinatal palliative care. Services includehome visits, emotional support, and grief counseling for families.Four Seasons Riversong Pediatric Palliative and Hospice Care3HC offers pediatric hospice services across eastern NorthCarolina, focusing on comfort and quality of life forterminally ill children and their families. Their team providescomprehensive support, including grief counseling andsymptom management. Located in western North Carolina, Four Seasons provides pediatricpalliative and hospice care through their Riversong program. Theyfocus on enhancing the quality of life for seriously ill children and theirfamilies. https://www.3hc.org/services/hospice-care/pediatric-hospice-care/https://www.viahp.org/pediatric-kidspath-programhttps://fourseasonscare.org/our-services/pediatric-palliative-hospice-care/

19Black Mamas Matter Alliance (BMMA)Sista Midwife ProductionsOffers directories of Black midwives, doulas, and birth professionalsnationwide.Focus: Reclaiming birth traditions and improving care outcomes forBlack birthing peopleNational Queer and Trans Therapists of ColorNetwork (NQTTCN)A national network advocating for Black maternal health,birth justice, and policy reform.A healing justice organization offering a therapist directory and mentalhealth resources for queer and trans people of color.blackmamasmatter.orghttps://www.sistamidwife.comhttps://nqttcn.com/en/

20Family EqualityThe Afiya Center (Texas-based,national impact)Reproductive justice organization led by Black women focused on HIVawareness, abortion access, and maternal health equity.Provides resources for LGBTQ+ parents and prospectiveparents, including legal toolkits, birth/adoption planning, andinclusive providers.https://familyequality.orghttps://www.theafiyacenter.org

Inclusive Directories & GuidesInclusive Therapist Directory: inclusivetherapists.comSearch by race, gender identity, and practice focusHealth Connect One Birth Equity Directory:healthconnectone.orgLists culturally competent doulas, lactation consultants, andprograms nationwidePostpartum Support International – Identity-Specific Groups:Offers online groups for BIPOC, LGBTQ+, military, andNICU parentspostpartum.net

22 Resources for Families and CaregiversPerinatal Hospice & Palliative Care – Resources for ParentsOffers featured resources for continuing a pregnancyfollowing a life-limiting prenatal diagnosis, includingbirth planning and support materials. Neonatal Comfort Care Program – Family ResourcesProvides comprehensive information and support forfamilies, including medical videos, books, and articlesrelevant to perinatal palliative care. UTMB – Resources for FamiliesOffers a curated list of helpful resources for familiesnavigating perinatal hospice care.

23NICU Resources for Parentshttps://www.mmhla.org/nicu-resources-for-parents?Parents with babies in the NICU can access specialized support groupsand coordinators through Postpartum Support International. Theseresources are designed for those with babies up to two years old whoexperienced a NICU stay .Maternal Mental Health Leadership AllianceA national nonprofit providing personalizedemotional support, educational resources, andcommunity for NICU parents. Servicesinclude virtual support groups, peer-to-peermentoring, counseling, and a mobile app foron-the-go assistanceHand to Holdhttps://handtohold.org/?March of Dimes – NICU Family SupportOffers family education, staff training on family-centered care, and improved patient experiencesin over 70 NICUs nationwide. Resources include"The NICU Journey" booklet and an evaluatedparent education curriculum.https://www.marchofdimes.org/our-work/nicu-family-support

24NICU Resources for Parentshttps://postpartum.net/group/nicu-postpartum-parents/Hosts an online NICU Parents Support Group led by trained facilitators,aimed at providing emotional support to parents of babies currently orformerly in the NICU. Postpartum Support International (PSI)A nonprofit organization offering support to families with infants inthe NICU and those who have experienced infant loss. They providecare packages, memory boxes, and host remembrance events. Project Sweet Peashttps://www.projectsweetpeas.com/

Affirmations for Postpartum Healing takes time, and I give myself grace.I am learning and growing every day as a parent.It’s okay to ask for help—I am not alone.My emotions are valid. I am allowed to feel and toheal.My love is enough. I am enough.EDUCATIONAL & ADVOCACY TOOLS25

MMHLA offers fact sheets and advocacy toolkits to raise awareness andreduce stigma around maternal mental health issues. Their resourcesprovide information on maternal mental health conditions, prevalence,disparities, barriers to care, and steps to wellness.Maternal Mental Health Leadership Alliance(MMHLA)https://www.mmhla.org/Provides resources and expertise to mothers, families, and clinical teamsto improve maternal and infant health, including information onbreastfeeding and evidence-based practices.North Carolina Perinatal Associationhttps://ncperinatalassociation.org/resources/?MMHLA offers fact sheets and advocacy toolkits to raise awareness andreduce stigma around maternal mental health issues. Their resourcesprovide information on maternal mental health conditions, prevalence,disparities, barriers to care, and steps to wellness.Lifeline for Moms Toolkithttps://policycentermmh.org/app/uploads/2024/05/LifelineforMomsPerinatalMentalHealthToolkit2-22-22FINALprintversion.pdf?

27Offers lactation support resources, breastfeeding classes, and maternalhealth support across North Carolina, helping families find localassistance. Breastfeed NChttps://breastfeednc.com/finding-support/?ACOG provides educational resources for providers, patients, andfamilies to reduce stigma and empower women and their families to seekhelp. They offer materials such as posters, pamphlets, and otherinformation to be displayed in healthcare settings American College of Obstetriciansand Gynecologists (ACOG)https://www.acog.org/programs/perinatal-mental-health/educational-resources-for-providers-patients-and-families?

Affirmations for Mental & Emotional WellnessI am doing the best I can, and that is enough.This is a season—it will not last forever.My identity matters, and so does my well-being.Taking care of myself is taking care of my baby.I am allowed to rest, to breathe, and to simply be. HOME VISITING & COMMUNITY-BASEDPROGRAMS28

30Nurse-Family Partnershiphttps://www.mmhla.org/nicu-resources-for-parents?This nonprofit connects low-income, first-time mothers withregistered nurses who provide home visits until the child's secondbirthday. The program aims to improve maternal health, childhealth, and economic security .Offers services to individuals and families in Durham, Wake,Orange, Alamance, and Johnston counties, with virtualsupport available statewide. Their programs focus on maternalmental health and wellness. Durham ConnectsProvides nurse home visits to families with newborns inDurham County, offering assessments and connections tocommunity resources to support early parenting.MAAME, Inc.https://maameinc.org/maternal-mental-health/?https://www.durhamconnects.org/

Affirmations for Parents of All IdentitiesThere is no one right way to parent—my path is valid.I bring something beautiful and unique to my child’s life.Love, not perfection, is what my child needs most.I deserve support, safety, and joy on this journey. PEER SUPPORT & COMMUNITY PROGRAMS31

Connects parents with local mental health resources, therapists, andsupport groups across the state. They offer free virtual supportgroups, including sessions for Black mothers, Spanish-speakingparents, and those experiencing loss32Postpartum Support International (PSI)North Carolina Chapterhttps://psichapters.com/nc/Provides support and education to pregnant and postpartumwomen and their families, guiding them through their baby's firstyear and beyond.Moms Supporting Moms (SAFEchild – Raleigh)https://safechildnc.org/moms-supporting-moms/?

Offers support groups and resources for caregivers navigatingpregnancy and postpartum challenges, including feeding, sleep,and mental health concerns.33Mind Body Baby NC (Charlotte)https://www.mindbodybabync.org/home?Healing Together – Shades of Blue Project (National)https://www.shadesofblueproject.org/Services: Online peer support groups, grief & loss circles,community doula supportFocus: Black mothers and women of color navigating pregnancyand postpartum challenges

Medical & Clinical CareProfessionals focused on your physical and mental health duringpregnancy, birth, and postpartum.OB-GYN / Midwife – Manages prenatal care, labor, andpostpartum recoveryPrimary Care Provider (PCP) – Addresses general health andcoordinates with specialistsPediatrician – Supports your baby’s health and developmentTherapist or Perinatal Mental Health Specialist – Helps withmood, anxiety, trauma, griefLactation Consultant (IBCLC) – Provides feeding support andsolutionsPelvic Floor Therapist – Assists with postpartum healing, pain,and functionTip: Look for providers with perinatal training or trauma-informed care experience.

Emotional & Peer SupportConnections that support your emotional well-being andremind you that you’re not alone.Partner or Co-Parent – Share parenting duties andemotional loadFamily Members – Offer love, assistance, and sometimespractical careFriends & Chosen Family – Provide listening ears, errands,meals, or encouragementPeer Support Groups – Local or virtual groups forpostpartum, NICU, grief, or identity-specific needsFaith or Spiritual Community – Clergy, spiritual guides, orsupport networksFind peer groups via Postpartum Support International,Mind Body Baby NC, or local orgs.

Community-Based CareTrusted programs and local services to help you access care,support, and resources.Doula – Offers non-medical support during pregnancy,birth, and postpartumHome Visiting Nurse / Program – Provides in-home supportafter birth (ex: Nurse-Family Partnership)WIC Office – Offers nutrition and breastfeeding supportfor low- to moderate-income familiesCommunity Health Worker / Navigator – Helps connectyou to housing, healthcare, and benefitsEarly Intervention / Family Support Services – Assistsfamilies with developmental screening and referralsContact your local health department or perinatal coalitionfor referrals.

Advocates & EducatorsPeople who empower and inform you—helping you askquestions, make decisions, and understand your rights.Birth Educators – Offer childbirth and postpartum classesPatient Advocates – Help navigate hospital systems orinsurance issuesLegal Aid – Assists with maternity leave, custody, orsafety concernsMaternal Health Advocates – Champion systemic changeand birth justiceNational groups like Black Mamas Matter Alliance and EveryMother Counts offer resources and support.Remember: You don’t need to use every part of the circle—but knowing who’s available can make it easier toreach out when you’re ready.

CRISIS RELIEF39

Dear Source of Peace,In this moment of uncertainty, fear, or deep exhaustion,I pause.I breathe.I reach for a strength that feels distant, yet still lives withinme.Hold me steady when I feel shaken.Calm my heart when the weight is too heavy.Remind me that asking for help is not weakness—it iswisdom.That I am never truly alone, even in silence.Surround me with voices that speak hope,hands that extend care,and hearts that understand what cannot always be spoken.If I can only take one step today—let it be toward light.If I can only whisper one truth—let it be, “I am worthy ofsupport.”Bless those who hold space for others in their pain.Bless those who offer comfort, without condition.And bless me, here and now, as I find my way through.Amen.

42National Maternal Mental Health Hotline 1-833-TLC-MAMA (1-833-852-6262)Free, confidential support for pregnant and postpartum individualsAvailable in English and Spanish, with interpreter accessEmotional support, referrals, and guidanceNational Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (988)Immediate support for mental health crises orsuicidal thoughtsAvailable 24/7 for any age, any concern Dial or text: 988

43Culturally appropriate support for NativeAmerican and Alaska Native communitiesDomestic and sexual violence responseStrongHearts Native Helpline 1-844-7NATIVE (762-8483)https://strongheartshelpline.org/ Text HOME to 741741Confidential text support for anxiety, depression,overwhelm, or traumaConnects you to a trained crisis counselor in minutesVirtual & Text-Based Supporthttps://www.crisistextline.org/Crisis Text Line

44Safe Haven Laws (for infant relinquishment): Learn your state's Safe Haven options at:nationalsafehavenalliance.orgDomestic Violence Support:National DV Hotline: 1-800-799-7233 Text: START to 88788thehotline.org Additional Immediate ResourcesIf you or someone you love is experiencing a medicalemergency, suicidal thoughts with a plan, or is unable tocare for themselves or others: In-Person or Local Emergency Care Call 911 or Go to the nearest Emergency RoomAsk for a perinatal social worker or mental health crisis teamif available.

Resource Contribution Portal Help Us Grow This CatalogWe believe that the most powerful resource is community knowledge.Whether you’re a provider, parent, doula, advocate, or nonprofit leader—you know your area best. Help us keep this Perinatal ResourceCatalog up to date, inclusive, and responsive by contributinginformation about the resources you trust and use.If you know of a local group, service, or program that supports new andexpecting parents, we’d love to hear about it. Thank You for Supporting FamiliesYour contribution could help connect a struggling parent to lifesavingsupport, a new doula to a family in need, or a provider to a network ofcare. Together, we build the village. How Submissions Are UsedOnce submitted, resources will be:1. Reviewed by our editorial team for accuracy and relevance2. Added to the catalog edition3. Credited to your organization You can use this form to share: https://forms.gle/gaHA8Gof9rNCiu256