Core Support Groups

At The Community Roots Collective, we believe in the power of community and connection. Our core support groups provide a safe and welcoming space for parents to share, learn, and heal together. All of our groups are donation-based and open to all. Whether you are seeking support, friendship, or resources, we welcome you to join us.

Mothercraft-

MOTHERCRAFT: /mə-t͟hər/kraft/ (noun) The is the skill in or knowledge of looking after children as a  mother.

A peer-led support group where moms come together to navigate the ups and downs of motherhood. Whether you’re seeking advice, solidarity, or just a place to be heard, Mothercraft offers a supportive environment where no mom feels alone. Come gather with other like minded moms to gain support, knowledge and friendship in a safe space with your babies. Mothers with children of all ages are welcome!

The Art Of Breastfeeding: A Lactation Support Group-

Feeding your baby can be one of the most rewarding yet challenging experiences of early parenthood. Our lactation support group is led by experienced professionals and provides guidance, encouragement, and evidence-based resources to help you on your feeding journey.

Full Cycle Loss and Support-

Full Cycle bridges the gap in support for people experiencing miscarriage, stillbirth and termination. We would like to invite anyone seeking a loving and supportive space to talk about their experiences to join us in person for open discussion on how loss has affected their lives. Wherever you are in your loss journey, we welcome you with open arms, open ears, and always, open hearts.

 

Past Support Groups:

We have previously hosted additional support groups and are always open to bringing them back based on community interest and need—let us know if there’s a group you’d love to see return!

4th Trimester Support-

Mothering is both the best thing and the hardest thing most of us will ever do. Whether it’s your first baby or 6th it can often all seem so very heavy. BIG emotions. This beautiful little person is the center of everything.
This group is intended for moms and their babies from birth to 12 weeks aka the fourth trimester. We’ll discuss the highs, lows and all the stuff in between. Welcome to motherhood, you’re not alone! Pajamas welcome. Come sit on our couch.

LGBTQ Parent Support Meet Up-

Creating a safe space for LGBTQ+ parents, prospective parents, and caregivers to meet, support their peers, and explore shared concerns. Come share your experiences in a space where you can speak openly and be heard.
Being LGBTQ+ parents we all share common life situations, experiences, and challenges- so let’s help ourselves by helping each other. This group is not only a place to express concerns, it is also a space to just TALK and meet other queer families in the community. This group is hosted and moderated by a fellow queer parent. ❤️????????????????????

 

Melanated Mom Support-

Mommin’ in Melanin is committed to fostering a vibrant and supportive sisterhood where melanated mamas can connect, share experiences, and find strength in their shared journey of motherhood. Our mission is to create an environment where you can thrive, grow, and feel celebrated.

 

MotherCraft en Español –

Un grupo de apoyo dedicado a brindar un espacio seguro y acogedor para madres hispanohablantes. En este grupo, las mamás podían conectarse, compartir experiencias y recibir apoyo en su propio idioma sobre la maternidad, la salud mental perinatal y la crianza. A través de conversaciones abiertas y recursos adaptados culturalmente, nuestro objetivo era fomentar una comunidad donde cada madre se sintiera escuchada, comprendida y acompañada en su viaje de maternidad.

 

 Core Educational workshops:

Our educational workshops are designed to empower parents with knowledge, confidence, and support as they navigate pregnancy, birth, and breastfeeding.

The Art of Breastfeeding: From Milk to Magic –

A comprehensive lactation class that covers everything from the science of milk production to overcoming common challenges, ensuring parents feel prepared and supported in their breastfeeding journey.

Sacred Spaces: A Homebirth Master Class –

A birth education course tailored for those planning a homebirth, offering evidence-based information, practical preparation, and guidance on creating a peaceful, empowered birthing experience.

Birth Fearlessly –

A childbirth education class for parents planning a hospital birth but seeking a more natural approach. This class equips families with knowledge about their rights, options, and techniques for advocating for the birth experience they desire.

Each class has a fee associated with it—please visit our Events Page for specific costs. Fees are waived or reduced for low to moderate-income families to ensure accessibility for all.

 

The Milk Line:

A lactation support initiative by The Community Roots Collective

Through generous funding from United Way Suncoast, The Milk Line provides free lactation consultation services to ALICE (Asset-Limited, Income-Constrained, Employed) and low-income families in Hillsborough County. Our mission is to help parents confidently nourish their babies while receiving compassionate, expert guidance—supporting both physical health and emotional well-being during the postpartum journey.

Eligibility:

  • Must reside in Hillsborough County

  • Household income at or below $75,000 for a family of four (final number may be adjusted based on FPL and ALICE thresholds)

  • Must be pregnant or have a child under 1 year old

  • Must complete a short intake form to determine eligibility

  • Must provide proof of income
    • Most recent pay stubs for all in household
    • SNAP award Letter
    • Most recent tax return

  • Completion of pre- and post-support surveys is required

Program Details:

  • Each qualifying family will receive up to 3 hours of professional lactation consultation

  • Services may be provided in-home, virtually, or at an agreed-upon central location

  • Families may reapply for additional support if funding is available

How to Apply: Visit our [website/application portal] to fill out the intake form. Applications are reviewed within 72 hours, and services are scheduled promptly upon approval.

Why It Matters:

In Hillsborough County, 31% of families fall into the ALICE category and 13% live below the poverty line. These families often struggle to cover basic needs—making access to lactation services feel out of reach.

Yet, lactation support is not a luxury—it’s a lifeline. Research shows that timely support improves:

  • Breastfeeding success at 6 months postpartum

  • Infant nutrition and health

  • Parent confidence and mental health

With The Milk Line, we’re removing barriers and ensuring every family has a strong, supported start.

 

*** The Roots is always looking for new ways to engage with the community and adopt new classes and support groups. Please contact us if you would like to volunteer, spearhead a new group or even just have an idea for a new group.