New York – October 16, 2026 -- Only 47% of American adults surveyed agree that mothers with children feel supported by those around them, according to new findings released alongside March of Dimes' 2026 Collective events in New York and Los Angeles.
Few respondents see moms getting time or help
The survey points to gaps in everyday support. Just 42% of respondents agree that mothers have opportunities to take time for themselves, and 41% agree that mothers have help caring for their children.
Awareness of mental health resources is lower still. Only 28% say they are confident that most mothers experiencing mental health challenges after childbirth know where to seek help.
March of Dimes brings moms, doctors and advocates together
The Collective is part of March of Dimes' It Starts With Mom campaign. March of Dimes President and CEO Cindy Rahman said the aim is to create a space where moms feel supported and empowered, and where no mom has to navigate motherhood alone.
New York event features a fireside chat and expert panel
NBC4 anchor Natalie Pasquarella returned as emcee and opened the program with a fireside chat featuring Rahman. March of Dimes Chief Medical and Health Officer Dr. Michael Warren then moderated a panel with:
- Dr. Nastassia K. Harris, RNC-MNN, DNP, IBCLC
- Elizabeth Baron, licensed mental health counselor and psychotherapist specializing in maternal mental health
- Danielle Olivera, TV personality and NICU mom
- Dr. Jennifer Wider, women's health expert, author, and TV and radio personality
Los Angeles event follows next Friday
Lanae Brody, entertainment and health reporter with California Post, will emcee in Los Angeles. The day begins with a fireside chat led by Karen Walker Johnson, CEO of Clever Care Health Plan and past March of Dimes Board of Trustees member, with California Surgeon General Dr. Diana Ramos.
Dr. Warren will then moderate a panel featuring:
- Lisa Schwartz, actor, digital creator, and maternal health advocate
- Sara Connell, bestselling author, speaker, and thought leadership expert
- Dr. Aaron Jordan Reitman, DO, Pediatric Neonatology, Kaiser Permanente
- Danielle Alura, international singer, model, actress, farmer, race car driver, and philanthropist
Local hospital programs get a spotlight
Each event also highlights local programs supporting families, with NewYork-Presbyterian and Stony Brook Children's Hospital in New York and Cedars-Sinai in Los Angeles.
Brands back both events
Johnson & Johnson is premier sponsor in New York, with Philips Avent and The Honest Company as supporting sponsors. In Los Angeles, The Honest Company is premier sponsor and Pampers is supporting sponsor. HCA Healthcare, Clearblue, and BD are additional It Starts with Mom campaign sponsors.