Facebook’s Newest Spot Salutes Mothers and Their Babies Who Were ‘Born in Quarantine’

“Born in Quarantine,” the latest spot from Facebook, debuted on Facebook’s platform channels Friday, just in time for Mother’s Day, and it will be extended to off-Facebook digital platforms and television Wednesday, May 13. Facebook said nearly 500,000 babies have been born during quarantine in the U.S., and the spot is aimed at helping them “lift each other up, appreciate the little moments and find new ways to care for their families and take time for themselves” while dealing with the unexpected challenges brought by the coronavirus pandemic. [kickout id="1"] On that note, the social network unveiled its Parent Support Hub, which provides information and resources on topics including: the latest information about Covid-19 from credible sources via Facebook’s Coronavirus (Covid-19) Information Center, WhatsApp and Messenger; directly messaging businesses on Messenger to inquire about delivery options or online orders; shopping for baby supplies and household items that may be sold out via Facebook Marketplace or Instagram shopping wish lists; asking for recommendations on where to get supplies, when doctor’s offices are open and easy food delivery options; stay connected with other parents, friends and loved ones; groups to share advice, get tips and connect with area parents; using Messenger video calling; learning more about the company’s Portal video-calling devices; sharing kids’ milestones on Instagram via popular hashtags; taking breaks for themselves via exercise classes, live concerts or other entertainment; and exploring shows on longform video destination Facebook Watch. “Born in Quarantine” is narrated by 100-year-old Anita Sampson, who lives in Sarasota, Fla., with 107-year-old fiancée Joe Newman. Sampson’s mother was just 20 during the influenza pandemic of 1918, and Sampson said, “People would be dropping in the street from feeling sick, and (her mother) would go out there and help them—make them comfortable or hold their hands or something.” Two new moms are also featured in the spot: Mona Omar, a 29-year-old fashion and design art director who lives in Nørrebro, Copenhagen, whose father worked for Save the Children and whose mother is a teacher and the founder of an organization that combats female genital mutilation; and Emma Sophie Næsby Petersen, who is cocooned in her “little love bubble” in Copenhagen with her partner, newborn and two-year old son. Omar said, “I’ve become really happy about the fact that I get to enjoy this experience with only my partner. There’s something really strong and intimate about that. And the opportunity to spend a lot of time together has been the most wonderful thing in the world.” And Petersen added, “A few times, I really missed contact with friends and family and was feeling sad and desperate. My girlfriend surprised me when I was 10 days past my due date and crying, with a basket with a loving note and lots of candy and flowers. That melted my heart.”