The Stork's Nest, a 501(c)(3), is a perinatal education and incentive program, run by members of the Chi Zeta Chapter of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., that promotes healthy pregnancies for minority, low-income and other at-risk women in Oklahoma City.
A cooperative national project of the March of Dimes Foundation and Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., the Stork’s Nest was established in 1971 and has over 100 "nests" nationwide. In 1974, the March of Dimes, Oklahoma City Chapter partnered with Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. Chi Zeta Chapter to help women have a healthy pregnancy and give their baby a healthy beginning.
Goals:
- Decrease the number of babies born prematurely (less than 37 weeks)
- Decrease the number of low birth weight babies born (less than 2500 gm or 5lbs. 8 oz.)
- Decrease infant deaths by promoting safe sleep practices and car seat safety
- Increase breastfeeding rates
The Program:
- Empowers women to make smart healthcare choices.
- Offers incentives for attending prenatal health care visits.
- Offers free prenatal classes to educate women about having a healthy pregnancy and birth experience, along with teaching the basics of infant care and breastfeeding.
- Provides access to experienced health educators and trained nurses for support while being pregnant.
- Assists in getting free baby items.
- Provides information and referrals to community resources.
How to Participate:
To join, you must receive prenatal care. You will earn points by attending Stork’s Nest educational classes, going to your regular prenatal care appointments and adopting healthy behaviors. After your baby is born you can continue to earn points by taking your baby to well-baby check-ups and making sure your child receives all of his/her immunizations on time. You will be able to earn points until your baby’s first birthday. You can use your points to shop at the Stork’s Nest store located at the Christ Experience, located at 131 NW 4th Street in Oklahoma City.
HOURS
The Stork’s Nest will be open for Education and tours on the 1st Wednesdays of the month and the 3rd Saturdays of the month from 10am to 12 noon.
During these times education sessions will happen and the Nest will be open for shopping.
DONATIONS
The Stork’s Nest is a 501(c)(3) organization. All donations are tax deductible. You can shop our registry at Target (Chi Zeta Stork’s Nest), or bring us gently used maternity or baby clothing are welcomed donations, or shop through AmazonSmiles and direct donations to us.
On June 16, 2018, The Stork’s Nest had it’s doors open. We have prepared to educate expectant families and provide encouragement.
June 6, 2018 the Stork’s Nest, Inc.’s Grand Reopening was a success. Our theme was “Bless the Nest.” Community members, March of Dimes’ staff, and Pastor Nicholas Lee of the Christ Experience were on hand to wish our partnership sucess.
Stork’s Nest History
When women make the commitment to their baby by joining Stork’s Nest they are taking the first step in ensuring a healthy pregnancy and a healthy baby.