Fundraiser Supports Maternal and Mental Health Programs

MOMS Orange County, the county’s largest nonprofit dedicated solely to infant and pregnancy health, held its annual Healthy Beginnings, Bright Futures fundraiser with 160 guests on May 13 at the scenic Marconi Automotive Museum. The lively fundraising gala raised $126K towards the organization’s educational and support services that improve birth and maternal health outcomes for vulnerable women and babies.

The pre–Mother’s Day evening included live music, dinner, auctions, speakers and an after-party with racing simulators and games.

“It was wonderful to celebrate MOMS Orange County with our amazing supporters, staff, volunteers and sponsors. Event proceeds will support our life-changing work with expectant mothers, fathers and families and we are grateful to everyone who contributed to our fundraiser’s success,” said MOMS Orange County CEO Dave Lugo.

Supervisor Katrina Foley made a special check presentation of $450K towards advancing MOMS OC’s IT infrastructure and health education programs.

Outgoing Board President Sadie Sacks, RN, MSN, of Los Alamitos, who has served in this capacity for seven years, was honored and recognized for her tremendous service. Incoming Board President Allyson Brooks, MD, FACOG of Hoag Women’s Health Institute gave a moving presentation, “The Strength of MOMS,” that addressed the importance of maternal health, motherhood and families.

Santa Ana Councilmember Johnathan Hernandez shared his incredible story of growing up in the MOMS OC neighborhood and later utilizing their services as a young father.

Actress, mother and former Disney Ambassador Jessica Bernard emceed the affair with dinner catered by White House Catering. The renown Marconi Automotive Museum, home to over 100 vehicles including Ferraris, Lamborghinis, muscle and race cars, motorcycles and automotive memorabilia served as the event site.

Major event sponsors included O’Donnell Family Foundation, Providence St. Joseph Hospital, Providence St. Jude Medical Center, US Bank, GreenFruit Avocados, Fruitripe, Hoag, Kaiser Permanente and Dr. David and Sadie Sacks.

About MOMS Orange County

MOMS Orange County formed 30 years ago in response to a crisis in access to prenatal healthcare for low-income, at-risk women. Today, MOMS Orange County serves more than 2,500 low-income families annually, directly influencing improvements in birth outcomes, maternal health, and developmental indicators among infants within a highly disadvantaged population.

For more information, visit https://www.momsorangecounty.org.

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