As New York continues to face stark racial disparities when it comes to maternal health and pregnancy-related deaths, elected officials are responding with a grassroots effort to boost maternal health outcomes, by hosting festive community baby showers to provide resources for expecting and new mothers.
“Every family deserves to begin this journey with support, dignity, and access to the resources they need,” said State Sen. Leroy Comrie, who hosted the 5th Annual Community Baby Shower on May 3 at the Eagle Academy for Young Men of Southeast Queens. “What we saw this [past] weekend was community in action neighbors, organizations and partners coming together to make sure our parents and children are not navigating these early stages alone.”
Pregnancy-associated deaths are still about five times as likely for Black mothers than they are for whites, based on the city’s 2025 Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH) report. Based on recent obstetrics and gynecology research, many of these deaths occur among Black moms in the two-year post-partum period after giving birth and not necessarily in a hospital. Having a support system, access to mental health care, and sufficient parenting resources can help families avoid tragedy.
* School auditorium filled with attendees to community baby shower. (PHOTO CREDIT: Contributed by Senator Comrie’s office) 
* New mothers visit information booths. (PHOTO CREDIT: Contributed by Senator Comrie’s office) 
* Expectant mothers rest their feet at foot massage corner at annual Community Baby Shower in Queens on April 25. (PHOTO CREDIT: Contributed by Senator Comrie’s office) 
* Young expectant mother gets a free crib at community baby shower. (PHOTO CREDIT: Contributed by Senator Comrie’s office) 
* Minnie Mouse actor entertains the kids at community baby shower. (PHOTO CREDIT: Contributed by Senator Comrie’s office) 
* Local fire department teaches families CPR and other useful life skills at community baby shower. (PHOTO CREDIT: Contributed by Senator Comrie’s office)
This year’s event brought together more than 200 families from across the district. They received essential baby items, including cribs, diapers, bottles, changing tables, drawers and dressers, and strollers. Mothers were also connected directly with a wide network of perinatal health, social service, and community-based organizations offering ongoing support.
According to Comrie’s office, one of the most meaningful moments connected to this year’s event came from Toni Gibson, who attended the baby shower to prepare for her child’s arrival. Gibson gave birth to her daughter, Baby Girl Eclipse, at 5 lbs 6 oz and 18.5 inches, on Sunday, April 26.
The event was made possible through partnerships with Queens Borough President Donovan Richards; Assemblymembers David Weprin, Alicia Hyndman, and Clyde Vanel; and NYC Council Deputy Speaker Dr. Nantasha Williams.
