As members of the body of Christ, we understand that our love is magnified when we join together in purpose. A singular quilt or Baby Care Kit, when united with the devoted service of others, becomes much larger than supplies for our neighbors in need. It becomes part of a powerful movement — one that draws mothers to health clinics for the safe arrival of their children and makes women and their families healthier.
This is the power of your love when multiplied with Lutheran congregations across the country. This is the power of partnership.
Blessing multipliers
Women in Madagascar have roughly 20 times higher risk of dying in childbirth than women in the United States. One significant contributor to this heartbreaking statistic is the high number of women — nearly 61% in rural areas — who give birth outside of health care facilities, often without the assistance of health care workers.
Creating truly lasting change on a global scale requires a network of dedicated partners. For Lutheran World Relief, one such partner is Global Health Ministries (GHM). Founded in 1987, Global Health Ministries advances the holistic ministry of Jesus Christ by partnering with Lutheran and other Christian efforts worldwide to strengthen health systems in 16 countries.
This past year, LWR partnered with Global Health Ministries (GHM) to distribute nearly 50,000 LWR Quilts & Baby Care Kits to 151 Lutheran health care network facilities in Madagascar, Tanzania, Liberia and Zimbabwe.
“We actually refer to Baby Care Kits as blessing multipliers, because they do so much more than give a gift of items. They're saving lives.” Sara Fisher, GHM’s Director of Philanthropy and Communications
GHM empowers health care workers with training, providing essential medical supplies, and most significantly, building trust.
“Where people worship and where they place their spiritual guidance, that’s where they place their trust,” Sara explains. “And so, when we partner with Lutheran hospitals and clinics to strengthen their health care, we are building off a trust that already exists within the community.”
GHM has found that LWR Baby Care Kits and LWR Quilts encourage patients to receive care in health facilities where skilled health professionals are available. They serve as incentives for expecting mothers to come in for care.
“They are pathways to better health,” Sara says.
A snapshot of your love
Through LWR’s partnership with GHM and because of your faithful service, here’s where and how your quilts and kits surrounded vulnerable mothers and babies in 2025.
“These items brought great relief. They have changed my life by easing the burden of preparing for my baby. I'm very happy for this blessing, and may the Lord bless the hands that provide for mothers like us.” Mundawana, a mother in Zimbabwe
In Zimbabwe...
Hypothermia is a real threat in harsh winters. Your Baby Care Kits are used in health education, teaching mothers about proper infant care, such as layering for warmth and swaddling, to ensure babies are safe despite cold weather.
In Liberia...
Curran Lutheran Hospital uses LWR Quilts and Baby Care Kits to motivate both patients and staff. They serve as encouragement to deliver at the hospital. And it equips health care staff to provide quality care.
In Madagascar...
Your love helps support a large network of Lutheran health systems, including 52 rural clinics, 16 hospitals and various training programs.
In Tanzania...
New mothers at Itete Lutheran Hospital aren’t the only ones grateful for your quilts and kits. Clinic staff have seen the positive impact on their patients, saying, "Your kindness and generosity bring joy to mothers and babies. Thank you for being part of this loving journey.”
“Before, I gave birth using old cloths and unsafe tools...but this time the kit gave me hope. I felt like I was giving birth with dignity.” Margaret, a mother in Zimbabwe
Scott Lien, GHM’s Director of Operations, often witnesses the profound impact of your LWR Quilts & Kits, describing them as a testament to Christ’s calling. He reflects on the joy they bring to rural Lutheran hospitals in places like Madagascar and Liberia, where your love is tangibly felt, even thousands of miles away.
“I love the power of partnership,” Scott continues. “Because when we do this together, we can do so much more.”
Partnership starts with you, our most dedicated quilters and kit-makers. Your most extraordinary generosity makes all of this possible.
Every stitch you sew, every kit you pack, every dollar you give sends the clearest, most undeniable message of hope and will continue...until your love reaches every neighbor.
Thank you!