From N.S., first-time mother

When I was getting ready for the experience of pregnancy and birthing, I was very nervous about so many things. My mind did not allow me to sleep because of overwhelming thoughts including what to expect, physical changes, things to prepare for a new arrival, and huge expenses. In order for me to calm myself down, I needed to research and study on the whole process of pregnancy and birthing. When I found out that the Uma Center has scholarships available, I felt hope. Receiving a scholarship gave me encouragement and amazing opportunity to engage with this very supportive community. I was able to attend a birthing class to fully understand what it means to give birth and to receive doula service that ended up being absolutely necessary support for me. I am very thankful for not only financial support but also knowledge and empowerment that I gained from this scholarship.

From C.M., first-time mother

Our doula’s presence was an invaluable contribution during pregnancy, birth, and postpartum. Her open, thoughtful, and supportive presence helped me through the challenges that have been a part of my experience. During labor she had lots of great ideas and resources and knew just how to help and what to say to get me through each step. Her postpartum presence was a great comfort and help at an overwhelming time. From the very beginning, our doula’s wealth of information and sensitivity really provided us an amazing foundation for us to have a birth experience we all feel really good about. The scholarship from the Uma center really took the pressure off of our family to be able to access her support!

From S. M., first-time father

As a husband, and now as a father, the Uma Center scholarship provided my wife and I access to a doula's services. The prenatal doula visits allowed us to get on the same page with information and in agreement on our goals moving forward. This was made possible, in large part, because I trusted the support of our doula. During the labor I was able to be my best self because of her help. Postpartum care has also been an amazing blessing. Our doula has eased the transition into the increased workload of having a baby, and making it more sustainable. I am so grateful for her assistance.