m2m - How we work

How we work

mothers2mothers has developed a unique model at the community level that is cost effective, easily replicable, scalable and adaptable to any culture.

m2m trains and employs HIV-positive mothers who have themselves benefited from our services to become ‘Mentor Mothers’. These Mentors comprise a team of caregivers and educators for other HIV-positive mothers and become an integral element of clinical prevention of mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT) care.

Located in antenatal clinics, maternity wards, post-delivery clinics and hospitals that offer medical treatment to women living with HIV, m2m works alongside established PMTCT treatment programs. We provide a comprehensive service to foster a supportive environment – one which promotes empowerment and companionship, assists women in combating stigma within their families and communities, supports a mother’s adherence to medical treatment, and reduces the likelihood that her children will become AIDS orphans.

Our services include:

Regular support groups
Formal and informal individual counseling
Help with issues of stigma and disclosure to family and friends
Comprehensive education sessions about HIV/AIDS, prevention of mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT), personal and the newborn's well-being.
Daily gatherings for nutritious lunches and nutrition education

In parts of Africa, up to 75% of the babies born stand to lose their mothers, who are HIV+, to AIDS-related illnesses. Without intervention, more than a quarter of these children will themselves inherit the virus. An entire generation is at stake.

"I didn't want anything to do with HIV-positive people or women, but when I saw these healthy-looking women and listened to their stories, I immediately became part of that family. We actually created a bond, which will last forever. I was empowered and prepared for disclosure..."

Site Coordinator and mother speaking about her m2m experience