Black Maternal Health Day at the YW
Black Maternal Health Week (BMHW) runs from April 11–17 this year. Led annually by the Black Mamas Matter Alliance (BMMA) the campaign focuses on amplifying Black-led solutions to improve maternal health outcomes. This year, to kick off the week, the YWCA of Asheville and Western North Carolina will host its inaugural Women’s Empowerment Presents: Black Maternal Health Day on Saturday, April 11 from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. in the Multipurpose Room at the YWCA.
This important community event is designed to raise awareness, provide education, and connect families to vital resources that address disparities in Black maternal health. Through intentional partnerships and culturally responsive programming, the YWCA is working to strengthen outcomes for Black mothers and families across Western North Carolina.
The event will feature community organizations committed to advancing maternal health, including:
● Buncombe County - Nurse Family Partnership
● Asheville Buncombe Institute for Parity Achievement (ABIPA)
● Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Gamma Gamma Omega Chapter
● Pisgah Legal Services
● Sistas Caring 4 Sistas
● FIRST WNC
● NC State Cooperative Extension
Attendees will have the opportunity to engage directly with these organizations, access resources, and learn about services that support prenatal health, advocacy, and family stability.
Central to this work are the YWCA’s MotherLove and Getting Ahead in a Just-Gettin’- By World programs, which reflect the organization’s deep commitment to supporting Black mothers through both health and economic empowerment.
Our MotherLove program provides comprehensive support for young mothers—offering education, peer connection, and access to critical resources that promote maternal and infant well-being. The program is designed to walk alongside mothers during and beyond pregnancy, ensuring they are supported holistically.
Getting Ahead focuses on economic mobility and stability, equipping participants with tools, strategies, and support systems to move beyond financial barriers. For many Black mothers, this program serves as a pathway to long-term stability, reinforcing the connection between economic security and positive maternal health outcomes.
“At the YWCA of Asheville and Western North Carolina, we understand that improving Black maternal health requires a comprehensive approach—one that addresses both health and economic well-being. Through programs like MotherLove and Getting Ahead, and events like Black Maternal Health Day, we are intentionally investing in Black mothers and families, ensuring they have the support, resources, and advocacy needed to thrive.”
Diana Sierra, Executive Director, YWCA of Asheville
The YWCA remains steadfast in its mission of eliminating racism and empowering women, with a continued focus on building strong partnerships that create lasting impact within the community.
This event is family-friendly, free and open to the public.
