Maria Berglund: Mom of Three and Founder of In Kind Boxes
Credit: Maria Berglund | Photo by Ashlie Behm Photography
Inspiring Momkind was born from a desire to give our readers a peek inside the lives of powerhouse women who make it happen at work and home. To spotlight moms in all different industries, uplift, inspire, and normalize our everyday realities. Simple, straightforward honesty from women who have seen and done it all. We've found that it is truly remarkable what seasoned moms will share and how they champion one another. With this series, we hope to make some of their tips, tricks, and soundbites visible to all of you who may be searching for similar encouragement.
Maria Berglund is a mom of three boys and the founder of In Kind Boxes, a volunteer-run 501(c)3 non-profit organization helping new moms feel loved and cared for during the beginning of their postpartum journey. Since its inception in 2019, In Kind Boxes has been able to help over 1,500 moms, and they are not stopping anytime soon.
WM: Tell us more about In Kind Boxes
MB: In Kind Boxes is my fourth baby. I started it in the Spring of 2019, hoping to help new moms in need feel loved and supported on their postpartum journey. I’m so grateful for all the love and support we’ve received over the last three years.
WM: In Kind is a non-profit/charity organization; what led you to make that decision?
MB: I chose to start In Kind Boxes as a volunteer-run 501(c)3 non-profit because I wanted people to know that when they donate to In Kind, the funds we receive directly impact the people who need it the most.
WM: What was the inspiration behind In Kind Boxes?
MB: I was inspired to start In Kind Boxes because of 2 reasons. The first was that I was raised by a single mom in need, and I have always felt compelled to give back in some way because of all the kindness and support I received growing up. Secondly, after having 2 of my 3 children in the US, I realized the lack of support for families and knew I had to try and help make a difference.
WM: Who has inspired you most throughout your journey?
MB: This is a tough question. I find women most inspiring, especially mothers. They can go through a lot and still show up for their families. Their level of strength is so inspiring.
WM: What is one thing you want people to know about In Kind Boxes?
MB: Our mission is to help reduce family inequalities and promote good health and well-being. I want to remind people that maternal health continues to matter beyond birth. Postpartum support is necessary too.
WM: What do you hope to achieve for your community as your organization grows?
MB: I hope we continue to grow a community of support for new moms in need, to show them that they matter and are not alone.
WM: How can people, brands, and organizations help further your mission?
MB: Here are a few ways that you can help:
A direct donation to In Kind Boxes makes the most significant impact and helps further our mission.
Purchasing gift boxes, swaddles, or Kindness Matters gear from our shop. Proceeds from selling these items help us purchase the essentials we fill our boxes with.
Bringing awareness to our mission by sharing with friends, family, and co-workers helps us grow and ultimately helps us help more families in need.
WM: Can you tell us more about the organizations you partner with to help moms?
MB: We partner with several organizations that distribute donated boxes to families as needed. These organizations currently serve families in need in some way, and our postpartum boxes supplement that care.
WM: How many moms have you helped to date, and how do you find them?
MB: We have helped over 1,500 moms in need since boxes were first available at the end of 2019! We find them mainly through organizations reaching out to us for support.
WM: Can you tell us more about how one purchase of an In Kind Box can help another mom?
MB: Yes. When someone orders a postpartum gift box from our shop, we donate one to a mom in need. The boxes we donate contain the same natural and organic essentials as the ones sold in our shop. We believe that every mom deserves quality postpartum care.
To connect with Maria Berglund, you can find her on Instagram @inkindboxes.
