The Citywide Doula Initiative in New York City has effectively reached over 3,200 individuals since its launch in 2022. This program has resulted in no maternal deaths among its participants and shown improvements in reducing C-section and preterm birth rates. The initiative specifically addresses stark racial disparities in maternal health, focusing on underserved neighborhoods and populations. In 2024, the program exceeded its client goals, with a significant portion of participants being Black and Hispanic women. It also provided support for non-English-speaking New Yorkers, enhancing equitable access to maternal care services.
Since the launch of the Citywide Doula Initiative in 2022, maternal deaths among participants have been eliminated, contributing to improvements in C-section and preterm birth rates across New York City.
Mayor Eric Adams stated, 'Expecting a child should be the happiest time of a woman's life. Unfortunately, pregnancy and childbirth can be dangerous, especially for Black and Hispanic women in our city...'
In 2024, the initiative served over 1,100 new clients, surpassing its goal, with nearly half of doula-attended births in disinvested neighborhoods facilitated by the program.
The Citywide Doula Initiative aims to close racial disparities in maternal health, providing free doula services to neighborhoods lacking investment, particularly benefiting Black and Hispanic women.
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