Maplewood health officer spotlights perinatal inequities and rising crisis social-worker caseloads

Health Officer Candace Davenport used the Board of Health briefing to highlight local programs and urgent needs in Maplewood on February 3. She promoted Family Connects NJ’s free in-home nursing visits for new parents, cited the Perinatal Health Equity Initiative’s finding that Black mothers are "seven to eight times more likely to die from pregnancy-related complications than white women," and urged residents and providers to use and publicize available services.

Davenport also reported public-health surveillance trends: influenza cases have declined in recent weeks, COVID-19 and RSV remain low, and the health department has audited 138 vaccination schedules. She encouraged use of countywide resources and listed 988 and 911 as two critical contact numbers — 988 for behavioral-crisis support and 911 for physical emergencies.

Committee members focused on a separate but related emergency: youth mental-health crises. Several members said there have been multiple youth suicides since January (committee remarks referenced "two since January" and elsewhere "three deaths"), prompting requests to coordinate with schools, social workers and outside providers. The health department reported its crisis social workers handled 41 cases in January; committee members described that caseload as both a sign of outreach success and an indication of rising need.

Members suggested immediate steps including partnering with school counselors, publicizing perinatal and crisis resources, holding community outreach events and ensuring that families can access supports. Health staff said they are actively following up with affected families and coordinating co-response with police where appropriate.

The board closed its health presentation by reminding residents about in-person and virtual resources, upcoming webinars for parents and community events tied to Black History Month.