Since 2021, Simply Healthcare has awarded funding to Capital Area Healthy Start to train Doulas. This doula workforce development project was also in collaboration with the Doula Network, Indian River Healthy Start Coalition, and Birth, Education, Advocacy & Mentorship (BEAM).
This partnership was established to increase the number of doulas in our local community because of their many benefits for both mother and baby. Research has shown that women who are supported by a doula during labor and childbirth are less likely to have a baby who is born too small or too soon, and more likely to have a shorter labor, and feel satisfied with their birthing experience.
By 2024, we plan to expand this program to connect pregnant women to specially trained doulas that can provide support during pregnancy, childbirth, and after delivery. Our doulas will provide our local families with culturally sensitive pregnancy and childbirth education, early linkage to health care, and other services like labor coaching, breastfeeding support, and parenting education.
If you are interested in learning more about the G.R.O.W. Doula Program, please click here.