Imagine welcoming a new life into the world without even the most basic essentials. That’s the reality for many mothers in Haiti. It’s a stark contrast to the resources we often have readily available. But at Many Hands for Haiti, we’re changing that narrative, one Maternity Kit at a time.

What we take for granted here in the U.S. simply isn’t available in Haiti, and these resources are crucial for a new mother and child’s survival. In Haiti, new mothers often lack the necessary supplies, leaving them incredibly vulnerable.

Pictured Above: A mom and her child who are in our First 1,000 Days Program. 

Our Maternity Kits include vital essentials: a onesie, socks, hat, and blankets for the baby, plus reusable diapers, safety pins, washcloths, toothpaste, soap, and after-birth dressings for mothers. These items might seem simple, but they can make all the difference. They provide dignity, hygiene, and a crucial start for both mother and child.

Pictured Above: Many Hands staff in Haiti assemble Maternity Kits. 

Haiti urgently needs resources to improve women’s healthcare. The maternal mortality rate is staggering—350 deaths per 100,000 live births. Sadly, Haiti has the highest maternal death rate in the Western Hemisphere. This isn’t just a statistic; it represents real lives, real families, and real heartbreak. That’s why our work is so vital.

Paving the way to a successful childhood – one mom at a time.

Health resources are crucial for survival. In my 20+ years in healthcare, I’ve repeatedly seen that beyond faith, optimal health is paramount. A mother who can’t care for herself will struggle to care for her child. A simple Maternity Kit gives her a better chance at survival and her baby’s survival.

Pictured Above: Maternity Kit Delivery to a Mother in Our Program.

It’s more than just providing supplies; it’s about offering hope. It’s about ensuring a mother has the tools she needs to care for her newborn. It’s about empowering her to give her child the best start possible. When I think about the mothers we serve, I’m reminded of the fundamental human need for care and compassion. These kits are a tangible way to show that we care, that we see them, and that we’re here to support them.

Why These Kits Are Near And Dear To My Heart

For 17 years, I’ve worked at Medtronic, one of the world’s largest medical device companies. In neurosurgery, women’s health, and patient monitoring, I’ve supported thousands of vulnerable patients and physicians. Ten years ago, I wanted to do more for the unreached and dove into philanthropy and community outreach.

My journey with Many Hands for Haiti and these Maternity Kits has been deeply personal. Besides serving on Many Hands’ Board, I’m part of Medtronic ASPIRE, a women’s leadership group. As former Chair, I’ve led many international trips. I also serve on Project C.U.R.E.’s Ambassador Board, a nonprofit providing medical equipment to underserved communities worldwide.

Pictured Above: Kendra Meyer with children in Haiti. 

By connecting medical devices with Many Hands and Project C.U.R.E., I launched a Maternal Kit program. This project will deliver kits to expecting mothers in Haiti and The Bahamas. It’s been incredibly rewarding to see these partnerships come together and make a tangible difference in the lives of mothers and babies.

This isn’t just about providing kits; it’s about building connections, fostering hope, and making a lasting impact. It’s about Many Hands coming together to create a better future for families in Haiti and beyond.

Next Steps

Want to be part of this life-changing work? You can support our Maternity Kit program and help provide essential resources to mothers in need. 

Visit https://www.mh4h.org/product/maternity-kit/ to learn more and donate today. 

Together, we can make a difference.

About Many Hands:

Many Hands is an Iowa-based nonprofit dedicated to transforming together, to be in action, in a broken world. We desire to walk alongside the community and empower individuals and families by focusing on education, agriculture, leadership, safe structures, youth programs, and early childhood development. Together, we can rebuild lives and restore hope, one person, one family, one community, at a time.