“We are proud to continue our partnership with Prisma Health in its efforts to address maternal health disparities,” said David Lominack, South Carolina Commercial Market President, TD Bank.
“The impact of the Black Doula Program underscores the importance of innovative solutions in improving health equity.”
The Black Doula Program has provided small grants to offset the costs of trained doulas for mothers.
Doulas provide non-medical comfort and support – before, during and after birth. Their work has been shown to result in shorter births, fewer complications, increased breastfeeding success and positive birth experiences.
The program is expected to serve an additional 100 women in each of its second and third years.
A doula helped a new mother with breastfeeding and also cooked meals and cared for the baby while the mother spent time with her older children and the father did the housework.
The woman, Jernae Webb, said she appreciated working with someone who shared her culture.
“It was nice to work with someone who looks like me and can also understand the different challenges that women of color can face,” Webb said.
Webb quit her corporate job to become a postpartum doula after the birth of her second child. “It’s incredibly rewarding work that can make a huge difference in the lives of those mothers and their babies,” she said.
Dr. Kacey Eichelberger, chair of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Prisma Health, said the department is celebrating the first year of the Black Doula Program.
“We remain committed to advancing health equity and ensuring that every mother receives the care and support she deserves,” said Eichelberger.
Nationally, racial disparities in health care contribute to higher rates of disease and death among black Americans, and black women are three to four times more likely to die from pregnancy-related events, Rashana said. Keller, a nurse practitioner and clinical educator who directs the Black Doula Program at Prisma Health.
Shelley Sylva, TD head of US Corporate Citizenship, said equal access to maternal support is essential to the strength of communities. “Investing in the health, wellness and empowerment of Black mothers is investing in our future,” said Sylva.
Each patient chooses her own doula. Funds from Prisma Health go directly to doulas and are distributed throughout the communities served by Prisma Health.
For information, go to prismahealth.org/services/womens-health/maternity/black-doula-grant.
Autobell Car Wash Collections For Make-A-Wish
Autobell Car Wash customers can help critically ill children through June 30 while giving their cars a shine. Autobell will donate $1 from every sale of its raincoat special to the Make-A-Wish Foundation.
Autobell is open every day; hours vary by location. Donations will be made from locations in North and South Carolina, Virginia, Maryland and Delaware. The company has locations in Greenville, Simpsonville and Greer.
Each year, Make-A-Wish grants more than 15,000 wishes to critically ill children and their families.
“We want to help provide a spark of joy,” said Autobell President and COO Carl Howard. “Research from health care providers shows that granted wishes have physical and emotional benefits, giving children and their families strength to fight and hope for the future.”
Charlotte-based Autobell Car Wash is celebrating 55 years in business. Founded by the late Charles Howard Sr., it is privately held and operated by generations of the Howard family.
“Mastering Money” Simpsonville Room Event Theme
The theme of this month’s Simpsonville Chamber of Commerce Lunch and Learn is “Mastering the Money Game: Turbocharge Your Financial Growth.” The event will take place from 11:45 a.m. to 1 p.m. on June 25 at the Prisma Health Chamber Conference Room, 105A W. Curtis St.
Mike Giordano, Certified Financial Planner with Williams Wealth Management, will speak. Lunch will be provided by Sully’s Steamers.
Williams Wealth Management was acquired in 2003 and named after former colleague Gordon Williams. Managing Partner Jeremy Strickler and Operations Manager Rachel Poole remain from that original team.
Giordano joined the firm in 2016 after a career in broadcasting. He completed his CFP designation in 2018.
Lunch & Learn participants have an opportunity to introduce themselves, their businesses and their network before and after the presentation. Registration includes lunch. Note any dietary restrictions.
The 2024 Lunch & Learn Series is presented by Founders Federal Credit Union. Registration is $10 for members and $20 for non-members. For information and registration, go to https://simpsonvilleareachamber.chambermaster.com/eventregistration.
Rooms A-List Prices Open
The Simpsonville Area Chamber of Commerce Annual Celebration and A-List Awards Presentation, presented by Prisma Health, will take place with dinner, networking and awards on August 15 at Holly Tree Country Club, 500 Golf Club Drive.
The event will start at 17:30. Tables, sponsorships and guest registrations are available. To register, go to https://members.simpsonvillechamber.com/events/.
The A-List Awards will honor Chamber members in multiple categories: Animal and Pet Care, Banking and Financial Services, Beauty and Personal Wellness, Business Development Services, Education and Child Care Providers, Entertainment and Attractions, Venues and event services, healthcare providers, hotels and accommodations, housing and real estate services, insurance and legal services, local shopping and retail, maintenance and repair services, manufacturing and distribution, minority-owned businesses, non-profit organizations, restaurants and food services, facilities and services for the elderly.
Nomination forms are now available at members.simpsonvillechamber.com/form. The deadline for submission is July 12.
A team of judges will review all nominations and select the top two nominees in each category. The community will choose the winner from the two nominees.
