Mother’s Day gift for all

I remember the Mother’s Day coupon book I made as a child and had my students make when I was teaching. Narrow strips of colored paper, crudely stapled together. Hand lettered with love.

They read: I will take out the garbage without complaining. I will keep my room clean for one whole week. I will brush my teeth without being reminded.

These were sweet, children’s versions of what their mother would want. But let’s think about ALL mothers. What do all mothers around the world want? The chance to have a safe and medically supported pregnancy and birth. Healthy sons and daughters who live beyond the age of five.

Congress can now write ALL mothers a “coupon book” by passing bi-partisan legislation, The Reach Every Mother and Child Act of 2015 (S.1911 and H.R. 3706)

The “coupons” of the REACH act read: We will develop a U.S. Government strategy to end preventable child and maternal deaths by 2035, with ambitious, clear, and measurable goals. We will Increases accountability and transparency at all levels. We will focus on the poorest and most vulnerable populations, and recognize the unique needs within different countries and communities. We will create new, innovative funding sources to complement U.S. investment; and stretch every dollar further to save the most lives.

Lawmakers should seize this incredible opportunity and pass this common sense, cost-effective and — most importantly — lifesaving legislation.

Let your legislators know that you want this Mother’s Day gift for ALL mothers.

This story was originally published May 6, 2016 at 8:38 AM with the headline "Mother’s Day gift for all."