Breadcrumb
  1. Home
  2. Programs & Impact
  3. Focus Areas
  4. Maternal Health
  5. Strengthening Black Maternal Health

Strengthening Black Maternal Health

What kind of changes do we aim for?

We act to:

  • Increase access to and coverage of comprehensive high-quality maternal health services, including behavioral health services
  • Ensure those giving birth are heard and are decisionmakers in accountable systems of care
  • Advance data collection, standardization, transparency, research, and analysis
  • Expand and diversify the maternal and child health (MCH) workforce
  • Strengthen economic and social supports for people before, during, and after pregnancy

What kinds of programs strengthen Black maternal health?

What does supporting maternal health look like?

We share these photos, stories, and videos to show how our grantees are working to advance Black maternal health. They illustrate how those giving birth are decisionmakers in their own care, emphasize the importance of behavioral health and comprehensive care, and show how doulas make a difference in maternal health outcomes.

Photo spotlight

Community of Hope Community Health Center
Washington, DC

A new baby is a family affair! Community of Hope doulas, midwives, and perinatal care coordinators love to involve the entire family in caring for mom and baby.

Codman Square Health Center
Dorchester, MA

A certified nurse midwife delivers care to a pregnant patient. This photo highlights the value of routine, respectful care, including listening carefully to any concerns the patient may have.

Healthy Start San Diego
San Diego, CA

A midwife admires a Healthy Start baby at a home visit for Healthy Start San Diego.

We encourage you to check out additional featured photos from our grantees.

Doulas make the difference

How can I find data on maternal and infant health in my county and state?

Use our Maternal and Infant Health Mapping Tool to explore data.

Where can I find funding opportunities?

Explore HRSA open funding opportunities at HRSA.gov and find upcoming opportunities at Grants.gov.


i Hung, et. al. Access To Obstetric Services In Rural Counties Still Declining, With 9 Percent Losing Services, 2004–14, Health Affairs, September 2017.

Date Last Reviewed: