Mother’s Day begins with a safe birth.

But the first day of life is the most dangerous for mothers and their newborns. Each year, over 287,000 women die from complications – one every two minutes – during pregnancy or childbirth and more than 1 million babies die in the first day of life. Many of these lives could be saved with the help of a skilled and equipped attendant present at birth – the most effective intervention.

That’s why Direct Relief supports midwives who are helping mothers in need access vital care and are the first in line of assistance. They provide high-quality care during routine deliveries; manage basic complications; and recognize when to refer a mother to emergency obstetric care. But they can only do their work if they have the right tools, which is why Direct Relief equips midwives with the instruments they need to save lives.

For $25, Direct Relief can provide a midwife with the tools needed to protect a mother and bring a baby safely into the world.

Help us reach our goal of ensuring 5,000 safe births this May by making a life-saving donation in celebration of a mom in your life. Each donation enables you to send a personalized Mother’s Day e-card, letting the recipient know a gift has been made in their honor.

Learn more about the initiative by watching this video.