Courtesy of JIREH Providers
More than 300 families gathered at the Jackie Robinson YMCA on June 14 for the San Diego Family Health Fair, featuring a Community Baby Shower, a powerful day of celebration, connection, and support for expecting parents and families across San Diego.
Hosted by JIREH Providers and UC San Diego Health team (led by Dr. Audra Meadows), with support from the Jackie Robinson YMCA and numerous community partners, the event was created in response to a reality that continues to impact far too many families: Black women are disproportionately more likely to experience pregnancy-related complications, adverse birth outcomes, and barriers to quality maternal healthcare. While these disparities are well documented, so is the power of community when families are given access to resources, support, and trusted relationships.
More than 70% of registered attendees were expecting mothers. Families received free health screenings, health education, resource navigation, community referrals, and opportunities to connect directly with healthcare providers and support organizations. The event also featured free ultrasounds, lactation support, children’s activities, food, entertainment, and dozens of community resources designed to support families before, during, and after birth.
One of the event’s most celebrated highlights was the distribution of essential baby items, including cribs, strollers, pack-and-plays, diapers, wipes, and other necessities that can ease the financial burden many families experience during pregnancy and early parenthood. A significant portion of these items were made possible through the generosity of All Saints Church, whose pastor, Meghin Bishop organized a diaper drive and whose volunteers dedicated countless hours to supporting the event.
Families also received free ultrasounds provided by Katrina Stevens, Licensed Sonographer and owner of Babes & Bellies, offering many parents a memorable opportunity to connect with their growing babies while learning more about their pregnancy journey.
“Every family deserves to feel supported, seen, and celebrated,” said Samantha Williams, CEO and Co-Founder of JIREH Providers. “Birth equity is not just a healthcare issue—it is a community issue. When we invest in mothers, babies, and families, we invest in the future of our communities. This event was about creating space where families could access resources, build relationships, and know they are not navigating this journey alone.”
The event also featured a special performance by internationally renowned vocalist Tinika Wyatt. Tinika and her husband, Jason Wyatt, owners of Transformed Families Counseling & Community Services, helped create an atmosphere rooted in hope, healing, and community.
The event reflected what is possible when healthcare systems, community organizations, faith leaders, and residents come together with a shared commitment to healthier pregnancies, healthier births, and healthier futures. For many attendees, it was more than a baby shower—it was a reminder that an entire community is standing beside them as they prepare to welcome the next generation.
