HISTORY
Birthing Project USA, known as the Underground Railroad to New Life, is a volunteer initiative dedicated to improving birth outcomes by providing practical support to women during pregnancy and for one year postpartum. Founded in 1988 by Kathryn Hall-Trujillo, it remains an African American maternal and child health program in the United States, often likened to the modern-day Underground Railroad.
Similar to how the Underground Railroad facilitated freedom from physical slavery, the Birthing Project empowers women who have achieved personal liberation to guide and support others towards healthier pregnancies and births. These women act as vital links between those in need of services and the resources available within their communities.
A significant barrier to healthier pregnancies is the lack of knowledge among mothers about preventive measures and factors leading to adverse birth outcomes. The Birthing Project addresses this challenge through its "Sister-Friend" approach, which aims to identify and overcome barriers to maternal health, one community at a time.
Since its inception, the Birthing Project model has been successfully replicated in over 128 communities across the US and seven countries worldwide. This expansion has contributed to the healthy births of more than 14,000 babies, demonstrating the program's profound impact on maternal and child health globally.
ABOUT US
Welcome to the Arkansas Birthing Project, where we are committed to transforming maternal and infant health outcomes in our communities. Founded on the belief that every mother and baby deserves exceptional care and support, we strive to create a culture of compassion and empowerment from the ground up.
Our journey began with a vision to provide unwavering social support to pregnant women, inspired by the pioneering work of Kathryn Hall-Trujillo. Since our inception, we have grown into a cornerstone of hope and assistance for mothers in Arkansas and beyond.
In Arkansas, as in many parts of the country, disparities in healthcare access contribute to unequal health outcomes for mothers and infants, particularly among minority and underserved populations. We confront this challenge head-on by advocating for equitable access to prenatal care, fostering community partnerships, and nurturing local leadership committed to maternal health.
At the heart of our mission is the belief that by investing in the well-being of mothers, we ensure brighter futures for our children and communities. Through collaborative efforts with community leaders, healthcare providers, and dedicated volunteers, we strive to improve birth experiences, reduce maternal mortality, and enhance overall family health.
Join us in our commitment to building resilient, supportive communities where every mother feels valued, heard, and empowered. Together, we can create lasting change and promote healthier beginnings for generations to come.
Explore how you can be part of our journey. Whether you're interested in volunteering, partnering, or starting a Birthing Project in your own community, your involvement makes a difference. Together, we can make maternal and infant health a priority for all.
Birthing Projects in Arkansas
Sole to Soul Birthing Project- Jacquelyn White – j.w.solecare@gmail.com- 870-270-9144
Ashley County Birthing Project- Ruby Johnson- rubyj1958@yahoo.com- 870-415-2386
Arkansas Birthing Partners and Birthing Project- Sylvia Halliburton- shalli-accg@yahoo.com
Footsteps to Freedom Birthing Project- Alice Rogers Johnson- arogersjohnson@yahoo.com
Gene Anders Birthing Project- Fawn Maxwell and Kathleen Oates- kathleen.oates0403@gmail.com or fawntellamaxwell@gmail.com - 501-346-8414 and 501-944- 8098
Precious Jewels Birthing Project- Hajime White- Hajime_white@yahoo.com
Legacy Birthing Project- Ruthie Pride- -rpride11@gmail.com- 870-816-6017
Genesis 7 Birthing Project - Cassandra Maggett- clrwm976@yahoo.com - 870-208-5235
Cloud 24/7 Birthing Project- Stacey Armstrong- stacey.armstrong1983@icloud.com - 479-264-4207
Fathers Club- Kelvin Parker- goatkp2021@gmail.com- 501-551-5403
Doulas
Dr Cheryl Golden- 870-692-2290
Hajime White- 870-466-2546
Gwendolyn White- 501 870-466-2546
Sylvia Halliburton- 501-467-9005
Shawnrhea Lindsay- 501-297-0023
Doulas in Training
Venus Ivy - 501-313-3493
Kelvin Parker - 501-551-508