WFM receives $1.17M grant to advance maternal and infant health equity

JANS – The Women’s Foundation of Mississippi (WFM) has been awarded a three-year, $1,170,000 grant from the W.K. Kellogg Foundation to expand access to culturally responsive maternal and infant health care and strengthen community-driven health systems in Jackson, East Biloxi, and Sunflower County.

The grant will support WFM’s efforts to address persistent disparities in maternal and infant health by investing in local organizations, trusted care providers, and community-based solutions that improve birth outcomes for Mississippi families.

“Every mother and baby in Mississippi deserves care that is respectful, accessible, and responsive to their needs,” said Melanie Powell, Executive Director of the Women’s Foundation of Mississippi. “This investment from the W.K. Kellogg Foundation allows us to deepen partnerships with communities and build systems of care that are rooted in equity, dignity, and trust.”

The Request for Proposals (RFP) are available on the Women’s Foundation of Mississippi website at www.womensfoundationms.org. 

“This initiative reflects our commitment to investing in solutions that are driven by the communities most impacted by inequities in maternal and infant health,” Powell added. “By supporting local organizations and culturally grounded care models, we can help ensure that Mississippi mothers and babies not only survive, but thrive.”