YWCA hosts its 5th annual Maternal Health Summit at the UNCW Burney Center

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY)– This week Governor Josh Stein recognized “Black Maternal Health Week”, to raise awareness of ongoing disparities in maternal and infant health outcomes.

On Thursday, The YWCA hosted its fifth annual Maternal Health Summit at the UNCW Burney Center.

Dozens of people attended to meet vendors, hear presentations, and learn about resources for expecting parents. One topic repeated throughout the event was teh maternal health crisis impacting black mothers during childbirth.

YWCA Cape Fear President and CEO Velva Jenkins says the numbers continue to show a significant disparity.

“We are looking at that 3 out of 5, it’s that high, people die in childbirth. That is based no real reason, because there are so many factors that play into that,” said Jenkins.

A “March for Change Day” is set for next Wednesday, where participants will head to Raleigh to advocate for protecting Medicaid, expanding maternal mental health services and improving access to health care.