Blue & You Foundation supports doula programs

Blue & You Foundation provides support for moms-to-be

In addition to having a medical provider caring for them before, during and after their pregnancy, many mothers-to-be also choose to have a doula by their side. These trained professionals offer emotional and physical support, helping moms feel confident and cared for.

The combination creates a whole-person approach to care, which can make a big difference for moms.

Certified doulas undergo specialized training from organizations such as Doulas of North America (DONA) International. They learn about birth, breastfeeding and postpartum care, and they also receive six months of mentoring to ensure they’re ready to provide support for the moms and their babies.

Why does this matter so much in Arkansas? Because our state has one of the highest maternal mortality rates in the country, according to data collected from the Commonwealth Fund 2024 State Scorecard on Women’s Health and Reproductive Care and the state’s poor pregnancy outcomes. That means too many moms are dying during pregnancy or after giving birth.

That’s why the Blue & You Foundation for a Healthier Arkansas has awarded maternal and pediatric health grants to three groups that provide doula services: Ujima Maternity Network, UAMS Doula and Everyone Deserves a Doula.

Ujima Maternity Network: Building community support

The Ujima Maternity Network is a nonprofit based in Conway. Their mission is to increase the number of skilled birth workers – like midwives, doulas and lactation consultants – throughout Arkansas. They also focus on education and advocacy to improve care for moms and babies.

“We want to make sure moms get the care they need after birth,” says Nicolle Fletcher, Ujima’s cofounder and executive director. “Too many women skip postpartum visits, and that can lead to serious health problems.”

Ujima also runs Sista Circles, monthly support groups for new moms. These groups meet in person and online for a year after birth. Moms get emotional support, mental health resources and even baby essentials like diapers and wipes. The goal? Reduce postpartum depression and help moms feel connected.

UAMS Doula: Training and placing doulas where they’re needed most

UAMS Doula is partnering with Ujima to train 60 doulas who will serve at least 6,000 pregnant women in rural areas and minority communities. Their program includes 40 hours of training and six months of mentorship. They’re also working with health centers to place doulas where they’re needed most – in areas with limited access to doctors or hospitals.

Everyone Deserves a Doula: Education for moms

The Everyone Deserves a Doula (EDD), the nonprofit branch of Balanced Mama, which offers doula services, focuses on education. They offer birth classes and postpartum support for moms in central Arkansas.

“Education is key,” says Desiree Girard-Baxter, EDD’s director. “When moms understand their choices, they feel empowered and confident.”

Through their education project, EDD serves about 75 pregnant women in six counties with twice-a-month classes. They teach moms how to advocate for themselves, prepare for birth and for caring for their babies. They also plan to partner with other groups and doulas in Arkansas to bring their education to local communities, teen parents, and homeless or near-homeless families.

Why it matters for Arkansas families

In Arkansas, 65% of pregnancy-related deaths happen after birth, during the first year after the delivery. Yet, many women don’t get even one postpartum checkup. Doulas can help fill that gap by ensuring mothers have the support they need.

For families, a doula is more than a helper – they’re a trusted guide through one of life’s biggest journeys.

The Blue & You Foundation was established in 2001 as a result of an initial gift from Arkansas Blue Cross. Since its inception, the foundation’s financial base has expanded through wise and prudent investment strategies. This has enabled the foundation to support its mission by making grants funded by the interest earned on those investments.