SCAN Advocates Urge Congress to Protect Mothers and Newborns

Volunteer Advocates from Across the Country Gather in Washington to Urge Congress to Protect Mothers and Newborns 

WASHINGTON (July 22, 2026) — Children’s advocates from across the country rallied in the nation’s capital this week for the Save the Children Action Network (SCAN) Volunteer Leadership Summit, urging lawmakers to prioritize policies that support the health and well-being of mothers and babies in the U.S. and around the world.  

Advocates met with nearly 40 congressional offices, bringing the total number of meetings to more than 350 to date. They urged lawmakers to support the bipartisan Healthy Mothers, Healthy Babies Act and the Newborn Essentials Support Toolkit (NEST) Act, while also calling on Congress to appropriate $915 million for the Maternal and Child Health subaccount in FY27 and ensure those funds are spent as directed by Congress. 

The need for action is urgent. Since 2000, maternal and child deaths around the world have been cut in half; however, progress has stalled with maternal and child deaths increasing for the first time in decades. Half of all children who die before their fifth birthday die during their first month after birth, many from preventable causes. 

“I’m grateful to all of our Volunteer Leadership Summit participants who traveled to our nation’s capital to ensure our elected officials are prioritizing maternal and child health, including the NEST Act,” said Mark Shriver, Executive Director of Save the Children Action Network. “Their voices help ensure that mothers, babies, and families have access to the care, support, and resources they need to thrive. Together, we are building stronger, healthier communities and advancing a future where every child has the opportunity for a healthy start in life. Our volunteers continue to demonstrate the extraordinary impact that passionate advocates can have when they come together on behalf of children and families.” 

The bipartisan NEST Act would expand access to newborn supply kits for families across the United States, with priority given to communities facing the greatest need, including those living in maternity care deserts, rural areas, and regions with high maternal mortality rates. The kits include essential supplies, including diapers, ointments, baby wipes, and thermometers, that help parents care for themselves and their newborns during the critical newborn period.  

“Congress has an opportunity to improve outcomes for mothers and babies by investing in proven programs that save lives and prevent illness,” said Allison Dembeck, Head of Policy at Save the Children. “By supporting the bipartisan Healthy Mothers, Healthy Babies Act and NEST Act, along with strong funding for maternal and child health programs, lawmakers can help ensure more families have the care, tools, and support they need for a healthy start.” 

During their meetings on the Hill, advocates noted there is strong bipartisan support for maternal and infant health policies and shared their personal experiences and connection to issues to advance the health of every mom and child. SCAN volunteers and staff will continue working to support these policies through August recess, as lawmakers return to their home states, as well as through this upcoming election season.  

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Contact: Melissa Taveras, Senior Advisor External Relations and Public Affairs at mtaveras@savechildren.org.