The Need

Memphis moms are choosing life, yet losing their babies within the first year...

In over a decade of operation, the Memphis Morning Center has garnered statistics that indicate the need for accessible and cost-free maternal healthcare in Memphis. Since 2013, we have provided prenatal care for 2,218 moms and delivered 1,109 babies.

Each week, we receive calls from moms without insurance and nowhere else to turn. Our receptionist reported an average of 15-20 new appointment phone calls every week.

These moms come from diverse backgrounds, representing every part of our city, with demographics that include 14% Caucasian, 27% Latino, and 42% African American.

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Not only can we quantify a need through over 10 years of patient metrics, the Memphis community also demonstrates a compelling demand for care. Two of our partnering pregnancy resource centers saw a combined number of over 2,700 moms walk through their doors who ultimately needed accessible healthcare—something beyond their scope of services.

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Additionally, Shelby County’s infant mortality rate remains among the highest in the nation—with certain Memphis zip codes experiencing more infant deaths than some thirdworld countries—largely due to lack of prenatal care. This translates to a tragic reality: Memphis moms are choosing life, yet losing their babies within the first year, underscoring how critical prenatal and postpartum support truly is.