In a world where approximately 830 women die each day from pregnancy complications, Compassion International’s Survival Centers are becoming beacons of hope for mothers like Gabriella in Brazil. These centers, part of a groundbreaking $7.5 million campaign, are transforming maternal healthcare in impoverished communities worldwide.
When Gabriella faced a life-threatening situation during her pregnancy, she found herself repeatedly turned away from her local hospital. Living in a region where stillbirths are tragically common, she knew time was running out for her unborn son.
“As the days went by, I just remembered the countless stories of children in our community who were stillborn because their mothers were forced to wait too long. The worst thoughts came to my mind, and I was afraid that this would also be our story,” said Gabriella.
Desperate and afraid, Gabriella turned to a nearby Compassion Survival Center. The center’s medical team quickly recognized her emergency and advocated for her hospital admission. Hours later, she delivered a healthy baby boy.
Compassion’s Survival initiative provides essential services including prenatal care, nutritional support, and medical assistance to vulnerable mothers and babies. For just $1,000, one mother and her baby receive comprehensive care until the child’s first birthday.
NFL punter Bradley Pinion and his wife Kaeleigh are championing this cause through their “Punts for Purpose” campaign. “My purpose is to use this platform to serve Christ,” Pinion shared, inspiring other professional athletes to join the initiative.
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The stakes couldn’t be higher. Every year, 2.6 million babies in extreme poverty don’t survive their first month. According to UNICEF, most deaths occur within the first week due to preventable complications.
“I am deeply grateful to everyone at the center who has supported me in everything these past years,” Gabriella reflected. “Whenever I remember that if it weren’t for the Compassion Center, I might not have my son with me today, my heart swells even more with gratitude.”
Through the combined efforts of professional athletes, donors, and local churches, Compassion International aims to fund 500 Survival Centers, offering hope to thousands of mothers like Gabriella who deserve the chance to see their children thrive.
To learn more about supporting vulnerable mothers and babies through “Punts for Purpose,” visit Compassion International’s website.