Southern Oregon is home to higher-than-average rates of infant mortality and health disparities for mothers and their babies. Healthy Start of Southern Oregon aims to reduce these rates through community-based services for women, infants and their families. Healthy Start of Southern Oregon provides direct client services through partnering agencies, and also convenes task forces in Josephine and Douglas Counties to improve systems of care related to infant and maternal health.
View a snapshot of the program
The program is funded through a federal grant from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA).
“Incredible things happen when women recognize their abilities, value, and self worth. It’s when the ripple effect begins and it is essential for our future.”
– Sara Thuer, Josephine County Public Health
Who does the program serve?
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A Brief Healthy Start History
The program grew and welcomed 40 new project sites in 1997, which was the first year that the Health Care Coalition of Southern Oregon was funded for Healthy Start. We have been awarded this grant each award cycle since that time, with services being directed throughout areas of Southern Oregon.
The Healthy Start program has continued to grow and change. There are now 101 Healthy Start sites across the country in urban, rural, border, and tribal communities that have infant mortality rates of 1.5 times the national average.
The purpose of the Healthy Start (HS) program is to improve health outcomes before, during, and after pregnancy, and reduce racial and ethnic differences in rates of infant death and adverse perinatal outcomes.
Connect with Healthy Start
Today is National Self Care Day 🧡 Finding time for self care while parenting or pregnant can be hard. Here are some ways you can create some special 'you' time at home:
- Download a meditation app
- Listen to an inspiring podcast or your favorite song
- Take 3 good, deep breaths
- Drink a glass of water
- Write or doodle in a journal
- Take a power nap while you little one naps
- Go for a walk
