Maternal Health Awareness Day (MHAD) in New Jersey is a time to recognize that maternal health is not just an individual journey—it’s a community effort. This observance highlights the importance of supporting birthing parents, their families, and the professionals who care for them, while raising awareness about the ongoing maternal health crisis in our state.
Maternal Health Awareness Day was established in 2018 to shine a light on the challenges faced by mothers during pregnancy, birth, and postpartum, particularly in communities most affected by disparities in care. Over the years, New Jersey has used MHAD as a platform to foster collaboration among healthcare providers, community organizations, policymakers, and families to drive meaningful change.
This Year’s MHAD Community Calendar: January 20 – January 30, 2026 - View the Full Calendar
To continue this important work, Nurture NJ, the New Jersey Maternal Health Innovation Alliance (NJMIHIA), and partner organizations have curated a statewide calendar of community events to connect mothers, families, and caregivers with vital resources, education, and support. From workshops and webinars to family-centered activities, there are opportunities for everyone to engage, learn, and grow together.
CJFHC is proud to host seven events during this period:
January 21: Play with Purpose: Supporting Your Baby’s Learning Through Fun
2pm-3pm | 100 Community Drive, Montgomery NJ 08558 | Registration: https://bit.ly/4qlrkc0
From birth to age three, your baby’s brain is growing faster than at any other time—and play is one of the most powerful ways they learn. Join us for a warm, fun and practical workshop for parents of newborns and expecting parents. We’ll explore what early play looks like, simple ways to support development through everyday interactions, and what to expect as your baby’s play grows. Discover how you are your child’s favorite teacher and playmate during this window for learning.
January 23: Virtual Breastfeeding Webinar for Home Visitor Clinical Professionals
10:00am -12:00pm | Virtual on Zoom | Registration: https://bit.ly/4qozSz1
Meeting ID: 831 0444 6382 Passcode: 076064
Participants will learn supportive language to use when talking about breastfeeding for the home visitors. This workshop will also discuss ways to recognize normal versus concerning signs and when and how to refer families for additional support.
January 23: Apoyo Y Derechos Migratorios con LALDEF
Immigration Support & Rights with the Latin American Legal Defense & Educational Fund (LALDEF)
5:00pm-6:00pm | Virtual on Zoom | Registration: https://bit.ly/4qozSz1
Informative workshop to discuss constitutional rights of people regardless of immigration status and how to protect yourself during an encounter with ICE.
January 26: Virtual Breastfeeding Session for Community-Based Non-Clinical Professionals
10am - 12pm | Virtual on Zoom | Join Zoom Meeting: https://bit.ly/4r0Gqnn
Participants will learn supportive language to use when talking to community members about breastfeeding. The workshop will also discuss how to recognize normal verses concerning signs and when and how to refer families for additional support.
January 27: Parent Café Reset & Refresh: Parenting with Purpose in the New Year
Café para Padres: Reiniciando y Renovando: Crianza con Propósito en el Año Nuevo
5:30pm - 7:30pm | South Hunterdon Regional Elementary School 200 North Main Street, Lambertville NJ | Register here: https://bit.ly/3Z3LWJH
Let’s get together and reflect on what worked last year, what we want to change, and how to approach parenting with renewed energy and intention. Expecting your first baby? Hear from other parents and be intentional in your parenting journey! Newborns and toddlers welcome!
Reunámonos y reflexionemos sobre lo que funcionó el año pasado, lo que queremos cambiar y cómo abordar la crianza con entusiasmo y propósito. ¿Estás esperando a tu primer hijo? ¡Escucha a otros padres y hagas consciente de tu rol como padres! ¡Bebes y niños pequeños son bienvenidos!
This session is bilingual for both English and/or Spanish speakers.
January 29: Posparto: un momento de cambio para ambos padres
5:30pm-6:30pm | Virtual on Zoom | Register: https://bit.ly/3LarNP4
Algunos experimentaremos depresión y ansiedad, pero TODOS sentiremos diferentes cambios emocionales. Únete con Francheska Perez, madre de tres hijos,con experiencia de primera mano en navegar las alegrías y los desafíos del embarazo, el post parto y la maternidad. ¿Estás esperando tu primer bebé? ¿Oya tienes uno omás? Hablaremos sobre la realidad, las expectativas y los sentimientos.
January 30: Birth Planning and Communicating Preferences to Your Care Team
Session by doula, Jodie Sessoms. Learn how to create a birth plan and effectively communicate your wishes and concerns to your medical providers.
11am-12pm | Virtual on Zoom | Register: https://bit.ly/49svx6x
Each event is designed to empower parents, caregivers, and professionals with knowledge, support, and practical tools for navigating the maternal journey. Whether it’s learning through play, exploring breastfeeding support, understanding parental rights, or connecting with community resources, there is something for everyone.
