Context
Recent immigration enforcement activity in the Twin Cities has created fear, disruption, and instability for many families. Pregnant people, parents, and children are carrying heightened stress at a time when safety, consistency, and access to care matter deeply.
Out of concern for their safety, many families are postponing or avoiding medical appointments, prenatal care, postpartum support, school, and other essential services. Others are navigating sudden separation, housing instability, or loss of income. These disruptions have immediate and lasting effects on physical health, emotional well-being, and family stability.
Healthcare systems are seeing this impact directly. Hennepin County Medical Center’s OB clinic has reported an estimated 85 percent no-show rate, reflecting the difficult decisions families are weighing as they try to protect themselves..
The Childbirth Collective exists to support families through pregnancy, birth, and postpartum. Our work is grounded in the belief that every family deserves safety, dignity, and compassionate care. When access to support is disrupted during pregnancy and early parenting, the effects can ripple far beyond this moment.
As these barriers grow, community-based leaders are carrying an extraordinary load. Multilingual and BIPOC doulas, lactation professionals, bodyworkers, midwives, and organizations are providing extensive care, coordination, and advocacy within their communities. Much of this work is being offered at no cost, with individuals covering essential expenses out of pocket to keep families supported.
This mutual aid fund exists to support that care in real time. Donations are directed to trusted partner organizations led by people from impacted communities, with longstanding relationships and deep cultural knowledge. Every contribution helps meet urgent needs and sustain this work.
We recognize that people hold different financial realities and community networks. Participation is always optional. This fund is offered as one way to support local families in this moment, with care and respect for each person’s capacity.
10 Tips for Fundraising Within Your Own Network
1. Lead with a clear, human story
Concrete stories move people more than abstract causes. Start with what you are personally seeing or experiencing. It makes your ask feel human and personal.
2. Do personal outreach whenever possible
A direct text, call, or email (“Hey Grandma…”) is far more effective than a general post. Public posts still matter—but think of them as support, not the core strategy.
3. Name your role and proximity
Saying “I’m a member of the Childbirth Collective, and we are raising funds…”
4. Be transparent about the organization and fund flow
Explain who is pooling the funds and how they are distributed.
5. Ask directly and clearly
Don’t be overly indirect. A clear request (“Would you consider donating $25?”) is respectful and helps people decide quickly.
6. Frame giving as collective care, not charity
Emphasize solidarity and shared responsibility. Mutual aid is about showing up in times of need because we take care of each other.
7. Use your own voice, not organizational language
Scripts can help, but speak like yourself. Friends and family are responding to you.
8. Set a specific goal and timeframe
Naming a target and deadline creates urgency and makes progress visible (e.g., “We’re trying to raise $5,000 this week”).
9. If you’re in a position to do so, consider offering a personal match
Matching gifts can motivate your network and help people feel their contribution has immediate impact.
10. Lead with gratitude and share impact
Thank people sincerely and offer updates when goals are reached or funds are distributed. Gratitude builds trust and keeps relationships strong.
Sample Script:
Hi [Name],
Hope you’re doing well! I’m reaching out personally as a member of the Childbirth Collective. We’re raising mutual aid funds to support pregnant, birthing, and postpartum families in the Twin Cities who’ve been impacted by recent immigration enforcement.
Many families are postponing care out of fear, while community-based doulas, midwives, and grassroots organizations—many of them multilingual and BIPOC—are carrying a tremendous load to keep families supported.
This fund supports trusted, long-standing community partners providing that care in real time.
I know there are so many asks right now, so truly no pressure. But if you’d like to support our goal of raising $5,000 for local families, you can contribute at the link below or help spread the word by sharing it with others. Thank you for considering.
I appreciate you!
https://www.thechildbirthcollective.com/rapidresponse