The Montgomery County Department of Health and Human Services is hosting its annual “Right from the Start” maternal health resource fair at Holy Cross Hospital on Saturday, August 10th, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
The fair is organized by the county’s Babies Born Healthy program for the African American Health Program, Early Childhood Services, and the Improved Pregnancy Outcomes program, which focuses on supporting Black children and families from preconception through early childhood. Coinciding with National Breastfeeding Month, the event will cover topics such as breastfeeding, preconception, prenatal health, community support for families, doula support, developmental milestones, and mental health.
In 2022, Black or African American births made up 35 percent of fetal and infant losses despite representing only 21 percent of all births in Montgomery County, according to a press release.
“Prenatal care is crucial for a healthy pregnancy,” said County Executive Marc Elrich. “Infants who do not receive proper prenatal care are three times more likely to be born with low birth weight and five times more likely to die in their first year. I urge pregnant women and those considering pregnancy, especially Black women, to attend this event and learn how to give their baby a healthy start.”
DHHS Chief of Public Health Services, Nina Ashford, will deliver the opening welcome. Other speakers scheduled for the event include:
- Kisha Davis, Montgomery County health officer;
- Barbara Harrison, Howard University College of Medicine;
- Tiffaney Mills, Milestones;
- Whitney Dula, Babies Born Healthy program, DHHS;
- Crystal Trent Paultre, Babies Born Healthy program, DHHS;
- Karen Bernal, Improved Pregnancy Outcomes program, DHHS; and
- Jennifer Whitehead Smith, Kennedy Krieger Institute.
The event will feature kids’ activities, prizes, giveaways, and complimentary refreshments.
Every baby deserves to be born healthy,” said Ms. Davis. “While our community has made progress in reducing health disparities faced by Black mothers, more work remains to be done. Our hope is that this event will raise greater awareness and advocacy within our communities so that we can continue to positively impact the health of our families.”
The “Right from the Start” event is free, but online registration is required. Holy Cross Hospital is located at 1500 Forest Glen Rd. in Silver Spring. For more information or to get help registering, call (240) 777-3118.
Photo: © luzitanija – stock.adobe.com / Montgomery County Graphic
