As we prepared for our house and baby blessing, a few people asked what gifts they could bring and we initially even created a list. But it honestly didn’t feel fully aligned.

After some reflection we realized how fortunate and infinitely blessed we truly are. We have everything we need, and even more. So rather than receiving gifts, we wanted to invite everyone to give in a way that carries the spirit of this blessing beyond our home — toward mothers and children who are in real need, where support can make a meaningful difference.

Here in Portugal, giving birth at home isn’t covered by public healthcare. It’s a private expense and something most families simply can’t afford. While the hospitals provide medical care, the experience is often rushed and sometimes even traumatic - far from the gentle, nurturing atmosphere many parents wish for as they welcome their child into the world.

Our midwife Raquel, who is accompanying us through our own birth journey, also supports families who dream of a safe, peaceful home birth but don’t have the financial means to make it possible. She quietly offers her time and care to those who need it most and we would love to help her extend that generosity even further.

Every contribution from this fund will go directly to families who wish to give birth at home but can’t afford it. It's supporting midwifery care, birth supplies, and the essentials that allow new life to enter the world with peace, dignity, and love.

We’ll also be contributing personally to this fund — as a gesture of gratitude for the abundance and support we’ve received, and as a way to anchor this next chapter of our lives of receiving our beautiful baby girl by paying it forward.

For us, this feels like the most beautiful way to let the love surrounding our own home and baby blessing ripple outward — to transform our gratitude into something that touches other families’ lives at their most sacred portal.

Thank you for being part of this circle of giving.

With love and gratitude,

Raphael & Laura

Where the Funds Will Go

Your contribution will help provide:

Midwifery care — prenatal support, presence during birth, and postnatal visits.

Birth preparation supplies — home birth kits, birthing pools, and medical essentials.

Postpartum support — check-ins, guidance, and gentle recovery care for the mother.

Newborn essentials — items that bring comfort and safety in those first tender weeks.

Emotional and psychological support — presence, listening, and holding space for the family’s journey.

Find out more about Raquel's work here.