Connecting moms to community.
About Us
Pickles & Popsicles, Inc. is a community-based nonprofit in Jackson, MS dedicated to improving the postpartum experience for mothers across the state. Founded in response to the disparities and systemic challenges faced by mothers—particularly Black mothers—we provide direct support, mental health services, and education to ensure a healthier postpartum journey for mamas and their families.
Mississippi has one of the highest maternal mortality rates in the country, with Black mothers nearly four times more likely to die from pregnancy-related complications than white mothers. Many of these deaths occur during the postpartum period, making our work critical to maternal health equity in the state.
How We Serve
Mommy Mentorship
One-on-one services via phone or in person with a fellow mom to offer guidance during pregnancy, through birth (if requested), and 6 months into postpartum.
Afterbirth Aid
The postpartum period, or 4th trimester, is the weeks after birth when stress and anxiety about a newborn can be overwhelming. We provide tailored support to ease those fears and meet your home's needs.
Mommy Meetups
A safe space to express yourself, ask questions, receive support, and provide support to other moms through their individual journey.
Research
At Pickles & Popsicles, Inc. we are dedicated to improving maternal care and enhancing the well-being of those we support. To achieve this mission, we recognize the vital role that research plays in shaping our support systems for moms.
As we embark on this journey of discovery, we eagerly anticipate sharing our research findings with you. Stay tuned for updates in this section. Together, we can create a healthier and more compassionate world for all.
Meet Whitney!
Motherhood is beautiful, but it can also be incredibly isolating. Whitney created Pickles & Popsicles to share the joy, the sorrows, and to connect mothers to a nurturing community. In addition to being the founder of Pickles & Popsicles, Whitney Hunter-Batteast is a devoted mother and wife. Married to Cassio (the greatest man on the planet!), they are raising three beautifully brilliant children -– Kynadie, Cassio II, and Afeni.
Pickles & Popsicles was created during her last pregnancy (2019) and the name was birthed from her pregnancy cravings. Whitney experienced vastly different pregnancies with each of her children, but one thing was consistent - her village. She had a great circle of support at every turn, through every complication, and with every milestone.
Inspired by her own support circle, Whitney wants to build that village for fellow mothers. Empowering women throughout the motherhood journey with community, connection, and education founded upon evidence-based research. Emotionally supported mothers raise emotionally supported children.
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ADVOCACY
We equip mothers with the knowledge and facts to navigate for quality treatment regardless of age, background, ethnicity, or insurance status. And we take a public stance to raise awareness within our broader environment.
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MATERNAL SELF-CARE
Maternal self-care is at the core of our efforts to support and nurture the wellbeing of mothers. We recognize the significance of a mother’s mental, emotional, and physical health, both for herself, and as an essential factor in creating thriving families.
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SUPPORT
Support defines our community, providing a nurturing environment and resources to those in need, fostering a strong sense of belonging and solidarity.
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EDUCATION
Education is the gateway to empowerment. We equip individuals with knowledge and skills that can transform lives and create a brighter future.
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RESEARCH
Research drives discovery, innovation, and evidence-based practices. It informs our educational resources and validates not just our cause, but also the experiences of every individual.
Why our work matters:
Maternal Mortality: Mississippi ranks highest in the U.S. for maternal deaths, with
87% of these deaths deemed preventable (MS Maternal Mortality Review Committee, ‘23).
Postpartum Care Access: Less than 60% of Mississippi mothers receive any
postpartum care, with even lower rates in rural and underserved areas.
Mental Health: Postpartum depression affects 1 in 8 mothers, yet over 50% in
Mississippi report unmet mental health needs due to stigma and lack of access.
Economic Impact: When mamas thrive, families and communities thrive. Ensuring
postpartum support reduces healthcare costs, improves maternal workforce retention,
and fosters healthier child development.
Support Our Cause
Your support will allow us to:
1. Expand Services: Scale our postpartum education and support programs to underserved regions.
2. Enhanced Accessibility: Increase access to maternal, mental, and postpartum resources and destigmatize seeking care.
3. Strengthen Self-Care Outreach: Boost the production and distribution of the Mommy R.E.S.E.T. Boxes, directly impacting maternal well-being.