Memphis and Shelby County have been consistently named as having one of the highest – if not the highest – infant mortality rate in the United States. In order to combat the infant mortality crisis, Christ Community Health Services, a local Christian-based not-for-profit that seeks to meet the medical and health needs of Memphis’ underserved population, offers the Centering Pregnancy program.

Centering Pregnancy takes a unique approach to prenatal care, which encompasses self-care techniques, group prenatal care and facilitated meetings, which industry studies have shown to contribute to reduced risk of preterm birth in participants. Mothers in the program attend regular facilitated meetings with Christ Community staff and other mothers with similar due dates, where they are able to learn not only from the medical professionals at Christ Community, but also bond with and learn from other expectant mothers. They feel more involved and in control of their care and empowered to ensure they deliver a healthy, full-term baby.

Sisters in Motion Memphis, a group of African-American women with a shared interest in fitness and fellowship, will host its Second Annual 5K to benefit Centering Pregnancy on Saturday, Sept. 24 at 9 a.m. at Overton Park. Your support as a walker, runner or sponsor will help the organization make a difference in infant mortality by assisting with education and prenatal care through Centering Pregnancy. For more information about SIMM or to register, visit sistersinmotionmemphis.org. For more information about Christ Community Health Services and/or Centering Pregnancy, visit christcommunityhealth.org.