Dear Mama: A Block Party for Black Maternal Mental Health
Saturday, July 13, 2024 | 10am - 6pm
Lawson Academy
5052 Scott Street, Houston, TX 77004
The ALLICE Collective for Mental Health & Community Engagement is partnering with Jessica Ramos, LCSW, PMH-C maternal mental health expert and CEO of J Soulae Therapy, PLLC and Breathe Lounge & Wellness Spa to bring Dear Mama: A Block Party for Black Maternal Mental Health to the historic neighborhood of Third Ward in Houston, Texas, a known “maternal mortality hotspot.”
Black maternal mental health is a critical public health concern, as Black women face disproportionate rates of perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs) compared to their white counterparts. These mental health conditions not only impact the well-being of the mother but also have adverse effects on infant health outcomes and family dynamics.
According to a fact sheet published by the Maternal Mental Health Leadership Alliance (MMHLA) in July 2023, mental health is the leading cause of maternal death, and Black women experience maternal deaths at 2-3 times the rate of white women.
Additionally, single Black mothers are six times more likely to experience depressive symptoms. Despite the existence of interventions to address maternal mental health, Black women continue to face barriers in accessing and engaging with these services, exacerbating existing disparities.
Our mission is to actively strengthen the mental well-being and emotional resilience of Black mothers through curated community building activities, education, and meaningful collaborative efforts with local Houston organizations.
What to Expect
maternal mental health screenings & “Meet the Doc” stations
panel discussions and Q & A’s with licensed physicians, mental health clinicians, birthing experts, community mental health advocates, and local community leaders
workshops for Black fathers
group yoga, meditation, healing circles, and other wellness activities
education on mental health symptoms and coping strategies
mental health, wellness, and community resource vendors
food and live entertainment
family-friendly activities
raffles to include give aways from Houston Diaper Bank, Hello Postpartum, UTHealth, and Mommy’s Sweet Treats and Company
postpartum care packages
wellness SWAG bags for up to 200 registered mothers
and so much more!
Volunteers Needed
We are currently seeking volunteers to assist in the following areas:
Registration
Kids Zone
Vendors
Panels & Workshops
Setup & Teardown
Food & Beverage Stations
Raffles & Swag Bags
Cooling Stations
Parking & Traffic
Childcare
General
Vendors | Participants | Donors
Lawson Academy
Harris County Public Health
TXDFPS Faith-Based & Community Engagement
Mental Health America of Greater Houston
Hello Postpartum
Network of Behavioral Health Providers
Breathe Lounge & Wellness Spa
Houston Diaper Bank
Depelchin Children’s Center
UTHealth Houston
Community Health Choice
Music Therapy in Color
Nurtured Roots Doula and Family Services
Mommy’s Sweet Treats and Company
J Soulae Therapy PLLC
The ALLICE Collective for Mental Health & Community Engagement
Houston Tool Bank
Mama Khronicles
Let’z Paint
Kroger Health
Family Scholar House
Monarch Family Services
Your Turning Point In Wellness
Yellowstone Schools
Assembly HTX
Grounded Within Therapy
This list is growing and updated weekly.
Please complete our request form if you offer health and wellness products or services and have questions regarding our vendor opportunities, would like to donate raffle items, or have an interest in becoming a partner, collaborator, or sponsor. We will follow-up in 1-2 business days.
Vendor Fees:
$50 | For-Profit Organization
$25 | Non-Profit Organization
All vendors will receive a 6ft table, 2 chairs, and tent.
Contact Us:
P: 832.536.5948
E: Community@TheALLICE.org