While many congregations hand out flowers and hold special prayers for women, the Christian charity's warning one-in-20 babies in the West African nation of Togo do not reach their first birthday.
It's thought poverty is often the root cause of deadly complications, disease and malnutrition.
Koffi Ahonon from Compassion Togo said: "The majority of women and babies in Togo do not have access to appropriate healthcare during pregnancy, delivery and early hours. Sadly, the consequences can be fatal."
Speaking at the launched of Compassion UK's new Different Path Appeal, Mr Ahonon said the situation is especially bleak in rural communities.
A huge thank you to @MaeveSherlock for showing your support for our Different Path appeal tonight and closing us in prayer.
— Compassion UK (@compassionuk) March 26, 2019
Our Different Path exhibition runs at the @SalvArmyIHQ until 25 April and is supported by @DFID_UK. #UKAidMatch #aDifferentPath pic.twitter.com/BNdesFLsPP
He explained: "Women often have to travel long distances to reach the nearest health facility. It is a huge battle to find the necessary money to take a motorcycle or taxi - and pay for an antenatal appointment."
The Appeal will fund projects being run in conjunction with churches in Togo to provide expectant mothers with antenatal check-ups and access to birth attendants.
They will also offer potentially life-saving assistance in the form of basic healthcare, hygiene products, food and clean water - as well as spiritual guidance and mentoring.
Mr Ahonon added: "Together, we can create an environmental in which mothers and babies in Togo are able to thrive - and every child is known, loved and protected."
We're thrilled to be launching our Different Path #Photography exhibition at the @SalvArmyIHQ tonight! We can't wait to hear from some of our amazing Compassion graduates, staff and special guests! The exhibition is open until 25 April! #UKAidMatch #aDifferentPath @DFID_UK pic.twitter.com/9oPARyTqmh
— Compassion UK (@compassionuk) March 26, 2019
Every donation give to Compassion UK's Different Path Appeal before 24th June 2019 will be matched by the UK Government.
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