During a recent government meeting, the Vice President of Philanthropy for Parents as Teachers National Center highlighted the critical role of doula services in addressing the maternal mortality crisis, particularly among communities of color. The organization, which operates over 890 affiliates serving 200,000 children across the U.S., has successfully utilized $178,040 in ARPA funds since February 2023 to support its direct service affiliate in St. Louis and the Normandy Schools Collaborative.

The funding has enabled the Show Me Strong Families Parents as Teachers affiliate to provide essential doula services to 74 birthing individuals, significantly impacting their health outcomes. Testimonials from service recipients underscored the life-saving nature of the support provided, with one individual expressing gratitude for the doula's presence during a critical moment in her care.

The doula services include two prenatal visits, support during labor, and a postnatal visit, all aimed at helping families navigate health concerns and access vital community resources. This initiative not only addresses immediate health needs but also fosters long-term protective factors for families, contributing to a broader effort to combat maternal mortality in vulnerable populations.