Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., Alpha Delta Zeta Chapter reaches fundraising goal, highlights maternal health at March for Babies Walk
JANS – Recently, members of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated, Alpha Delta Zeta Chapter and its auxiliaries gathered at the Jackson Medical Mall for the annual March for Babies Walk, raising critical funds and awareness in support of maternal and infant health. The event, held in partnership with March of Dimes and Stork’s Nest, brought together sorority members, community partners, families, and supporters committed to improving outcomes for mothers and babies across Mississippi.
While approximately 30 participants took part in the walk, the day’s greatest achievement was the chapter’s successful effort to meet its $3,500 fundraising goal. Those funds will support the work of March of Dimes, a longtime partner in the sorority’s mission to address maternal health disparities, reduce infant mortality, and improve access to care for women and families.
This year’s program demonstrated the chapter’s continued commitment to that mission. Beyond the dollars raised, the event served as an opportunity to educate the community about the ongoing maternal health crisis and the importance of collective action. Participants also donated essential baby items, including diapers, wipes, pacifiers, baby lotion, and baby shampoo, further extending support to families in need.
The event featured Mississippi State Representative Zakiya Summers as the guest presenter, speaking on the topic of maternal health.
Rep. Summers highlighted the urgent challenges facing Mississippi families, including high rates of maternal and infant mortality, healthcare workforce shortages, rural hospital closures, and barriers to prenatal and postpartum care. She emphasized that maternal health is not only a healthcare issue but also a public policy issue that requires sustained advocacy, investment, and community engagement. Her remarks echoed themes she has shared throughout Mississippi, stressing that where a mother lives, her access to healthcare, and the policies enacted by elected leaders can significantly impact health outcomes for both mothers and babies.
“The success of the 2026 March for Babies Walk is a testament to what can be accomplished when service, sisterhood, and community come together around a common purpose. For Alpha Delta Zeta Chapter, the event was a reaffirmation of our commitment to improving the lives of women, children, and families throughout Mississippi,” said Judge E. Faye Peterson, chapter president.
For decades, Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. has worked to promote healthier pregnancies and healthier babies through educational initiatives, community outreach, and direct support services. Through the Stork’s Nest program, Alpha Delta Zeta and chapters across the country help provide expectant mothers with resources, education, and incentives that encourage prenatal care and healthy pregnancies.
The March for Babies Walk reflects the belief that every mother deserves access to quality healthcare and every baby deserves a healthy start in life. Although Mississippi continues to face significant challenges in maternal and infant health outcomes, events like this demonstrate how community organizations can make a meaningful difference through advocacy, education, and service.
