From 2013-2016, WBWC participated in the 3-year Strong Start grant and WBWC patients who were Medicaid recipients, and who identified as low-income, received extra support including assistance from our peer counselors, Sofia Marks & Tracey Jones.  WBWC Strong Start patients were also given access to free breastfeeding education classes and received free breastfeeding pillows.  And like all WBWC patients, our Strong Start moms received time-intensive, high-touch, low tech midwifery care.  WBWC is the only birth center in the Triangle that accepts Medicaid patients.

The AABC Strong Start for Mothers and Newborns was a multi-year federal grant awarded to the American Association of Birth Centers in 2013. It studied the birth center model of care as a means to reduce the rate of preterm birth for vulnerable populations. Outcomes have been overwhelmingly good including lower cesarean rates, higher rates of breastfeeding and higher rates of satisfaction with their care. Learn more about these phenomenal outcomes.

If we can lower these complications, we can decrease infant mortality and maternal mortality and reduce disparities. We are proud to be actively improving the lives of women and their families and grateful to serve our community through the work we do.

With gratitude,

Brianna Bennett

Business Director

Women’s Birth & Wellness Center