The COVID-19 pandemic posed significant challenges for postpartum individuals in New York City, particularly in predominantly Black and Latino neighborhoods. A qualitative study examined the mental and emotional health of 41 postpartum women from North and Central Brooklyn, East and Central Harlem, and the South Bronx, who gave birth between March 2020 and March 2022. Interviews conducted in July and August 2023 revealed that many participants experienced heightened feelings of stress, anxiety, and depression due to pandemic-related factors such as isolation, fear of the virus, and changes in healthcare protocols. Despite these challenges, some women reported positive experiences, including increased bonding with their newborns and the formation of healthier social networks. The study highlights critical gaps in maternal health services during emergencies and calls for policies that address structural inequities, enhance social support, and improve access to perinatal mental health services. Recommendations include investing in paid family leave, affordable childcare, telehealth, and expanding the perinatal health workforce. The findings emphasize the need for emergency response planning to prioritize the safety and well-being of perinatal individuals, ensuring equitable health outcomes.