Support the Mamas of Amupakin: Preserving Ancestral Wisdom and Holistic Birth Practices
Since 1990, the "Mamas" of Amupakin, a group of dedicated midwives from the Ecuadorian Amazon, have been safeguarding their communities' traditions by delivering the next generation using time-honored birthing methods and Amazonian plant medicines. Their practices are rooted in centuries-old wisdom passed down through generations. Initially, they received support from the Spanish Red Cross, but this funding was discontinued in 1996 when the Ecuadorian government began offering conventional healthcare for free. Since then, the Mamas of Amupakin have struggled to sustain their services through donations and the sale of handmade artisan products.
Why Amupakin Matters
For the communities in the Amazonian province of Napo, Amupakin is more than just a place for childbirth—it is a beacon of hope, trust, and cultural preservation. Many indigenous families prefer to bring their children into the world in the hands of the Mamas, who use their deep understanding of natural plant medicines and traditional birthing methods, rather than in conventional hospitals that are often distrusted and disconnected from their culture. The Mamas provide a safe, nurturing environment where birth is celebrated in harmony with nature and the community's ancestral heritage.
Why Amupakin Matters
For the communities in the Amazonian province of Napo, Amupakin is more than just a place for childbirth—it is a beacon of hope, trust, and cultural preservation. Many indigenous families prefer to bring their children into the world in the hands of the Mamas, who use their deep understanding of natural plant medicines and traditional birthing methods, rather than in conventional hospitals that are often distrusted and disconnected from their culture. The Mamas provide a safe, nurturing environment where birth is celebrated in harmony with nature and the community's ancestral heritage.
How Your Contribution Helps
By supporting Amupakin, you are directly contributing to the health, well-being, and cultural preservation of the communities that are at the heart of Chak'ao’s mission. Your donations will go toward:
- Sustaining Traditional Midwifery: Financial support for up to 40 midwives who provide care rooted in Amazonian traditions.
- Building the Future of Ancestral Knowledge: Construction of a hut for the School of Ancestral Knowledge, where the wisdom of plant medicine and traditional practices can be passed on to future generations.
- Improving Community Facilities: Construction of a public bath and maintenance of a multi-purpose room to enhance community health and well-being.
- Upgrading Essential Equipment: Providing sanitary equipment, cabinets, and bedding for the hospital to ensure a safe and clean environment for mothers and newborns.
- Enhancing Accessibility: Supplying stretchers, wheelchairs, and constructing a warehouse to support the hospital's operations.
- Supporting Daily Operations: Upgrading the kitchen to nourish both patients and midwives, ensuring that this sacred place continues to thrive.