Black Infant Health Support

Anti-Black Racism, as well as social and economic stressors, play a major role in poor birth outcomes. The Black Infant Health (BIH) program works to improve Black infant and maternal health in Contra Costa County and to decrease disparities for Black women and infants.

BIH implements an intensive intervention. Group sessions are complemented with client-centered life planning, goal setting and referrals to services for participants and their families. This combination supports women in developing life skills, learn strategies to reduce stress and build social support.

BIH participants attend weekly group sessions, 10 prenatal and 10 postpartum.

Mission

The Contra Costa County Black Infant Health Program aims to improve health among Black mothers and babies by empowering pregnant and mothering Black women to make healthy choices for a brighter future.

Who is Eligible for BIH?

• Pregnant African American and Black women
• Postpartum African American and Black women with infants 6 months
• Age 16 or older
• Contra Costa County residents

All services are free, regardless of income.

What Services Does BIH Provide?

Program services are provided by Family Health Advocates, a Medical Social Worker, Community Liaisons and a Public Health Nurse.

• Interactive social support & empowering group sessions for pregnancy and postpartum
• Nutrition, breastfeeding and infant care information
• Prenatal yoga and meditation exercises
• Housing assistance
• Transportation assistance to medical appointments
• Baby essentials
• Linkages to disability information and maternal leave
• Stress and emotional support
• Community-Based Doula Program
• Fatherhood Program
• Much more!

How to Access BIH Services

Call 1-800-696-9644, fill out the FMCH Referral Form, or ask your health care provider for a referral.

Additional Resources

• Perinatal Equity Initiative
• California Black Infant Health
• Deliver Birth Justice
• Postpartum Depression
• Therapy for Black Girls