Maternal Health Initiative

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The Empowered Beginnings (EB) initiative of Another Choice Youth and Family Outreach (ACYFO), is a dedicated effort to improve the maternal health and well-being of Black and Latina women in East Harlem. Recognizing the unique challenges faced by these communities, we aim to provide comprehensive, culturally-sensitive support that empowers mothers-to-be with the knowledge, resources, and care needed for a healthy and thriving pregnancy journey.

Objectives

1. Promoting Prenatal Wellness: Our program focuses on early intervention, offering a range of prenatal services, including regular check-ups, nutritional guidance, and mental health support, to ensure mothers receive the best possible care throughout their pregnancy.
2. Culturally Competent Care: We understand the importance of culturally sensitive care. Our team is committed to creating a safe and welcoming space where Black and Latina women can express their unique needs and concerns.
3. Education and Empowerment: Through workshops, seminars, and one-on-one counseling, we provide essential information on prenatal and postpartum care, infant care, breastfeeding, and more. By empowering women with knowledge, we aim to foster confidence and self-assuredness in their maternal journey.
4. Community Connection: We facilitate a supportive network of fellow mothers, mentors, and community resources, enabling participants to build meaningful connections and share experiences.
5. Addressing Disparities: Our program takes a proactive stance against disparities in maternal health outcomes, working to bridge the gap in access to quality care and services for Black and Latina women.

Target Audience

The Empowered Beginnings program is designed for expectant Black and Latina women residing in East Harlem, with a focus on those facing socio-economic challenges and systemic barriers to healthcare access.

Program Components:

- Prenatal Health Check-ups and Screenings

- Nutritional Guidance and Meal Planning

- Mental Health and Wellness Support

- Educational Workshops and Seminars

- Supportive Community Network Building

- Access to Additional Resources and Referrals

Expected Outcomes:

- Increased prenatal care engagement

- Improved maternal and infant health outcomes

- Enhanced knowledge and confidence in maternal and infant care

- Strengthened community connections and support networks

How to Get Involved:

We will be re-launching this initiative in Spring 2024