Mother’s Day begins with a safe birth. But every two minutes a woman dies from complications during pregnancy or childbirth – taking more than 250,000 lives each year. Accompanied by a trained and equipped professional, many of these women can be saved.

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.

This year, Direct Relief enables supporters to honor a mother in their life by sending them a personalized Mother’s Day e-card representing a donation made in their honor to improve maternal health for the most vulnerable mothers in the U.S. and around the world. For $25, Direct Relief can provide a midwife with the tools needed to protect a mother and bring a baby safely into the world.

As a mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, this program is a cause close to 105-year-old Edythe Kirchmaier’s heart. See one of our longest-serving volunteers speak passionately about helping all moms and babies experience the same joy she has.