MATERNAL & 

CHILD HEALTH

Maternal and Child Health (MCH) Program is a public health initiative that aims at improving the health and well-being of mothers, infants, children, and their families.

EMPOWERING FAMILIES, SUPPORTING COMMUNITIES

The mission of the Institute for the Advancement of Minority Health is to improve health outcomes among minority and underserved populations via community engagement, research, and education.


The Institute’s Maternal and Child Health Program addresses disparities in maternal care by reducing infant mortality and ensuring equitable access to resources and support for mothers and children.

The African American Breastfeeding Project

Program Objectives

  • Advocacy

    Promote policies that improve maternal and child health outcomes.

  • Community Support

    Provide resources like facilitated support groups, postpartum recovery tools, and baby supplies to underserved families.

  • Education & Empowerment

    Host programs to empower families with knowledge about prenatal, postnatal, and child care practices.

  • Research and Partnerships

    Collaborate with organizations to implement evidence-based interventions tailored to minority populations.

Celebrating the Birthing Journey:

Baby Dove, Sista Midwife Productions, and BMMA


RMOMS

Programs Overview

RMOMS is an HRSA-funded research study exploring the benefits of remote patient monitoring for pregnant women and their babies.


Eligibility Criteria:

  • Pregnant women (20 weeks or less gestation)
  • Ages 16-45
  • Residents of Bolivar, Coahoma, Issaquena, Leflore, Washington, Sunflower, or Sharkey counties in MS or who are
  • Patients of Delta Health System, Delta Health Center, Northwest MS Regional Medical Center, or South Sunflower Hospital


Program Design

  • Collaborative Networks: RMOMS promotes collaboration among rural hospitals, health centers, local governments, and community organizations to establish integrated care networks.
  • Focus on Telehealth: The program often uses telehealth to connect patients in remote areas with specialists.
  • Culturally Competent Care: Emphasis is placed on culturally appropriate services to meet the diverse needs of rural populations.

Participate Will Receive:

  • Each participant will receive the following

    • Free remote patient monitoring equipment with mobile data during the study
    • Twice-weekly blood pressure checks using provided equipment
    • Health assessments and mental health surveys throughout pregnancy
    • Free access to registered dietitians
    • Resources to support a healthy pregnancy and maternal well-being
    • Free transportation services, if needed
    • Unlimited free virtual mental health and urgent care services

  • Tougaloo College Maternal & Child Facilitated Groups

    This program offers a comprehensive curriculum aimed at improving maternal and child health outcomes in rural communities. 


    Participants engage in seven key sessions:


    • Maternal and Child Health in Rural Communities - Addressing unique challenges and exploring opportunities for improvement.
    • Social Determinants of Health - Examining how factors like income, education, and environment impact health outcomes.
    • Using Epidemiological Data for Health Campaigns - Learning to utilize data for effective health messaging.
    • Health Communication Strategies - Developing tools to promote positive maternal and child health outcomes.
    • Coalition Building - Strengthening partnerships to create sustainable health improvements.
    • Community Outreach and Engagement - Encouraging active community involvement to support better health outcomes.
    • Health Literacy - Improving understanding and informed decision-making in maternal and child health. These sessions equip participants with the knowledge, skills, and resources to tackle health disparities, strengthen community ties, and create lasting change.


  • Baby Depot

    A quarterly program providing expectant mothers with essential supplies to support a healthy start:

    • Diapers
    • Wipes
    • Baby formula
    • Baby essentials
    • Women’s hygiene products

    The Baby Depot ensures families have access to the resources needed for a comfortable and healthy beginning.


    Healthy Families - The Women’s Foundation

    This initiative empowers women and promotes healthier outcomes through:

    • Breastfeeding Education: Reaching 100 Black women in the Mississippi Delta and Central Mississippi with culturally relevant support.
    • Social Media Campaign: Raising awareness about breastfeeding benefits and resources to engage the community.

    The program addresses disparities and fosters healthier futures for mothers and their babies.


    UMMC Maternal & Child Community Baby Shower & Postpartum Recovery RESET Box

    This program connects expectant and new mothers with vital community resources while celebrating key milestones.


    The RESET Box is a thoughtfully curated kit providing postpartum recovery essentials to support health, wellness, and self-care.


    This initiative fosters a supportive community, promoting the well-being for mothers and their babies.


    This initiative fosters a supportive community, promoting the well-being for mothers and their babies.

Learn more about Maternal and Child Health!