Better Health for Black Mothers and Babies

Black women in the United States are nearly three times more likely to die from pregnancy-related complications than white women. Black infant mortality rates are also higher.

The BLACK Wellness & Prosperity Center is trying to change that in Fresno, Calif., by training doulas — who support and guide mothers throughout the birthing process — and promoting culturally competent care.

Founded in 2017 by Shantay Davies-Balch, the center employs community health workers to address equity gaps, coordinate care, and improve the overall well-being of Fresno’s Black community. It also offers pregnancy and parenting classes and a free shop with baby and maternity clothes and gear. In 2021, the center started the Black Doula Network to train aspiring doulas. It has tripled the number of Black doulas serving Fresno County.

The mission of improving maternal and infant health is personal for Davies-Balch, who had two preterm babies despite taking every precaution. Earlier this year, Davies-Balch was honored as a James Irvine Foundation Leadership Award recipient, which included a $350,000 grant.

Says Davies-Balch: “Every woman deserves culturally competent support during birth — because healthier mothers mean healthier communities.”

Here, doula trainee Savannah Finley checks in on a newly postpartum mother and baby.