Nurturing the Perinatal Village
The Whole Mama Project is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to improving maternal health outcomes for mothers and families across Arkansas.
Our work focuses on strengthening support for mothers throughout pregnancy, postpartum recovery, and early parenthood through education, community partnerships, and access to essential resources.
Maternal Health in Arkansas
Arkansas has the highest maternal mortality rate in the United States, highlighting an urgent need for support.
Approximately 71% of maternal deaths in the state are considered preventable with proper clinical and communal care.
Only 46% of Arkansas counties have full access to maternity care providers, creating vast 'maternity deserts.'
Over 6.5% of births occur in counties where mothers must travel long distances to reach any obstetric services.
Our Story
The Whole Mama Project was founded with a simple belief: mothers deserve support beyond the walls.
Our founder, Makiya Newman, MSN, RNC-MNN, is a maternal newborn nurse who has spent her career caring for mothers and newborns during one of the most important moments of their lives.
Through her work, she witnessed firsthand the challenges many families face after leaving the hospital—especially those in underserved communities.
Maternal health disparities across Arkansas highlight the need for strong community support systems for mothers and families.
The Whole Mama Project was created to help bridge the gap between clinical care and community support, ensuring mothers have access to the education, resources, and encouragement they need throughout pregnancy, postpartum recovery, and early parenthood.
Our Mission
To support, equip, and empower mothers and families across Arkansas by increasing access to maternal health education, resources, and community support.
Our Vision
A future where every mother in our community has access to a dedicated perinatal support system, fostering healthier generations through clinical advocacy, emotional well-being, and professional resources.
Our Core Values
- Education
- Equity
- Community
- Compassion
- Empowerment
Our Goals
- Expand nurse-led education programs across Southeast Arkansas.
- Connect 500+ families annually with direct perinatal resources and local advocacy.
- Improve maternal health outcomes through informed prenatal and postpartum coaching.
- Build a sustainable volunteer network to ensure continuous, long-term communal support.