STORKS NEST: The Storks Nest Program was adopted in 1972. Through this project the Sorority fulfilled its pledge to become more deeply involved in the health and welfare of children and pregnant mothers. Stork’s Nest is an incentive program to increase the number of women seeking the early and continuing prenatal care so necessary if a baby is to be born healthy. The “Nest” is a non-profit redistribution center where needy expectant mothers of low-economic status receive clothing and other maternity needs. Clients are referred by cooperating hospitals, clinics or health centers. This national project is co-sponsored by the National Foundation of the March of Dimes Birth Defects Program.

CURRENT STORKS NEST INITIATIVES: Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated, Columbus Graduate chapter, is planning a citywide charitable baby shower in 2007. This event is in alignment with our national program Stork’s Nest, a programming partnership with the March of Dimes. Stork’s Nest is a community-based health promotion program for low-income expecting and new mothers. The program is designed to promote prenatal care participants and healthy behavior during pregnancy through two components: Incentives and Education.

We are soliciting your support in the betterment effort of our incentive and education programs in order for Zeta to have a greater impact in the lives of Central Ohio at-risk mothers. According to the National Center of Health Statistics, 11% of all babies are born pre-term and more than 7% have low birth weight. We are requesting chapter and community organization participation by way of donations [in-kind, financial, etc.] Layettes and baby supplies will be distributed to organizations such as Amethyst Inc., Faith Mission, Project Linden, YWCA and Choices for Women. Your participation and the participation of collaborative agencies will be recognized in a display at the program, as well as in all publicity, where allowed.

On behalf of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated, Columbus Graduate chapter, I thank you for your time and consideration in this matter. If you have any additional questions, please do not hesitate to contact Stork’s Nest committee co-chairperson Latonya Thurman