The Florida Blue Foundation announced a $3.5 million investment to expand maternal health support programs across Florida, aiming to improve outcomes for mothers and babies while addressing high rates of preterm birth and infant mortality statewide.
The nonprofit foundation, which is the philanthropic affiliate of Florida Blue and part of the GuideWell portfolio of companies, said the funding will support initiatives that expand access to doula care, in-home visits, mental health services, and chronic condition management for pregnant women and new mothers.
The investment will fund nine nonprofit programs through multi-year grants and reach communities throughout Florida, including rural and underserved areas with limited access to maternal health services. The programs focus on two primary areas: managing chronic health conditions during pregnancy and improving perinatal and postpartum mental health care.
Florida currently ranks 32nd among U.S. states, Washington, D.C., and Puerto Rico for preterm births, with a rate of 10.7 percent. Health disparities, chronic conditions, and barriers to accessing care continue to contribute to maternal and infant health challenges across the state.
Several of the funded initiatives aim to support pregnant women with chronic conditions through coordinated care, education, and transportation assistance. Programs include nurse navigation, doula support, remote monitoring tools, and home visiting services designed to help high-risk mothers manage health conditions and reduce complications.
Other funded initiatives focus on maternal mental health during pregnancy and after childbirth. These programs will expand access to behavioral health services through telehealth, integrate mental health screening and counseling into routine obstetric care, and provide peer support groups for expecting and new mothers.
Organizations receiving grants include Lakeland Regional Medical Center, the South Florida chapter of March of Dimes, Pasco Kids First, Collier Health Services and Healthcare Network of Southwest Florida, Primary Care Medical Services of Poinciana and Osceola Community Health Services, the University of North Florida Foundation, Capital Area Healthy Start Coalition, Indian River County Healthy Start Coalition, and The Children’s Movement of Florida.
The foundation said the programs are designed to meet mothers in accessible community settings, including clinics, homes, early learning centers, and other trusted local spaces.
In addition to the maternal health investment, the Florida Blue Foundation also announced the opening of applications for its 2026 food security grant program. The initiative will distribute approximately $3.2 million in grants to organizations that address food insecurity and improve access to nutritious food across Florida.
The program focuses on two areas: integrating nutrition and food access into health care through “Food Is Medicine” initiatives, and expanding community capacity to provide food distribution, urban agriculture, and other solutions in areas with limited access to healthy food.
Applications for the food security grants will be accepted through April 22.
KEY QUOTES:
“These organizations are meeting mothers where they are — in clinics, in their homes, in early learning centers, and in places that are comfortable and convenient for them. Every program we support helps close gaps in access, improve maternal and infant health outcomes, and strengthen families across the state.”
Susan Towler, Executive Director, Florida Blue Foundation
“To truly make progress for the youngest Floridians, we must impact the adults — in the family and community — who help shape children’s lives. We are grateful for the support from Florida Blue Foundation, which is helping to bridge gaps in care and services for new mothers and families.”
Madeleine Thakur, President And CEO, The Children’s Movement Of Florida
