One Small Thing

MATERNAL HEALTH

“One Small Thing” is a social media campaign that encourages Californians to support new moms. Through simple, everyday acts of care, we can all support postpartum mothers during one of the most challenging periods of their lives.

Simple Ways to Support

Californians of all ages can offer comfort and connection through meaningful gestures such as delivering a nutritious meal, babysitting for an hour, doing laundry or simply checking in. Together, we can help reduce preventable maternal deaths.

Coupon Book

Image of a person holding a coupon that says

Use this coupon book to show your loved one the many ways you can support them during their postpartum journey. Give them a coupon to redeem whenever they may need some extra help.

WHY IT MATTERS

More than 60% of maternal deaths happen after a mom leaves the hospital, when isolation is the highest and support is the lowest. Loneliness, occurring in 42% of new moms, is the strongest predictor of postpartum depression and crisis. Your small act of kindness could be the support she needs — and you could be the eyes and ears that help her recognize when she might need medical care.

How to Participate

Simple gestures, such as helping with household chores, delivering a nutritious meal, babysitting, running an errand, or simply checking in, can provide comfort, reduce isolation and give meaningful support during the postpartum period.

Pledge your support to do One Small Thing for a new mom in your life.

Illustration depicting various ways people can support a new mom along with the seal of the Office of the California Surgeon General.

Acts of kindness are the vehicle to affirm mom’s experiences, ensure they feel seen and heard, and encourage them to seek care when needed.

First Section

First Section

Do one small thing for a new mom

Simple, meaningful gestures can help a new mom in your life feel seen and supported, including:

  • Deliver a nutritious meal
  • Babysit for an hour
  • Do laundry
  • Simply check in
Share it on social media through video or photo

Record a short video or take a photo of your one small thing and share it on social media using the hashtags:

  • #OneSmallThing
  • #StrongStartAndBeyond
  • #MaternalHealth
Invite others to support a new mom as well

Inspire other people you know to help support postpartum mothers, including:

  • Family
  • Friends
  • Neighbors
  • Workplaces
  • Community groups