Zonta birthing kits help to save mums’ and babies’ lives

The kits help expectant mothers in third world countries have a hygienic birth. 

On Saturday August 28 members of the Zonta Club of Blackall Range will be gathering at the Uniting Church in Maleny to spend the morning packing birthing kits.

Why do these volunteers spend their time doing this? Because The World Health Organisation estimates that 830 women (and their babies) die every day, most of them in developing countries from infections acquired during childbirth. 

“Zonta’s aim is to empower women through service and advocacy and this is a tangible way of making that happen,” said June Robson from Zonta.

The kit is a simple package that includes a 1m square piece of plastic, rubber gloves, a sterile blade, gauze and cord ties, and soap. The kits help expectant mothers in third world countries have a birth that is, at least, hygienic. 

“To know that, at a local level, you’re folding up pieces of plastic, and putting together kits that help create a sterile environment for childbirth, is good.  This is something in western society we just take for granted,” Ms Robson from Zonta said.

To date, 2.4 million Clean Birth Kits have been distributed to women in need. So, the Zonta Club of Blackall Range will be busy packing the 600 kits they have purchased.

“We want to help to move towards a world in which all women and girls have access to a clean and safe birth,” said Ms Robson.

Packing day is Saturday 28 August at Uniting Church, Maleny starting at 9am. Because of COVID rules Zonta is limited to 30 people so it is important to call June on 5499 9234 to register your interest.