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Doula Programs: Is “free” a good thing?
When people are given something for nothing, are we doing them a favor? In some cases, yes, but only when there is true urgent need and they simply are not in a position to do any kind of payback. Even in these situations, folks should be given the opportunity (yes, Opportunity) to do an in-kind payback once they are back on their feet. It doesn’t have to be contributions of money. They can lick stamps, volunteer to work on a fundraiser, or organize a neglected lending library … but do something! I remember one former client sending us a donation of $5 and I don’t think I was ever so appreciative of any donation to the program than her $5.
In administrating a volunteer doula program over eight years, in which low-income families were provided with free birth and postpartum doula services, I noted a mindset from some clients that was very irritating to me. It was one of entitlement and working “the system” for all they could get (somehow I didn’t think of us as “the system”).
For example, there was the woman who received free birth doula services and then called the program months later to get a “postpartum doula,” when she was really looking for a babysitter. She called back several times in different guises, trying to get free babysitting services from us. She was a user, plain and simple. I didn’t set up a doula program to enable users and I don’t expect our volunteer doulas would stick with the program for long if I did.
Doulas are supposed to empower women and their families. How do give-aways, in which the expectant mother is cast in the role of helpless victim of circumstance, send a message of empowerment? Is any doula program truly free? Of course not! Lots of people (or, in some cases, a few) are working really hard to make it happen. Let’s be realistic here. Everyone should do their share to contribute. And if they truly can’t, then we give, with the hope that someday they will be in a position to pay it forward.
How has your doula program provided an opportunity for clients to do a payback?
The Doula Programs blog provides a forum for doula program visionaries and implementers to consider common challenges, ask questions, and learn from each other. Patty Brennan is the author of The Doula Business Guide: Creating a Successful MotherBaby Business.