Lisa Helbling: Chair and Consumer Director | Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Dakota
Lisa Helbling: Chair and Consumer Director | Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Dakota
The Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Dakota (BCBSND) Caring Foundation is currently accepting applications for its Maternal Health Grants. These grants aim to support nonprofit and community-based organizations working to reduce inequalities in maternal health care before, during, and after pregnancy. The application window remains open until April 30, 2025.
According to a study by the North Dakota State University (NDSU) Center for Social Research, funded by the BCBSND Caring Foundation, 59% of mothers experienced at least one adverse childhood experience (ACE), with 29% reporting three or more ACEs. Such experiences can lead to various health issues in adulthood. Despite favorable rankings for North Dakota women’s health compared to national statistics, there are still significant gaps in maternal and child care.
Dan Conrad, BCBSND Caring Foundation Board Chair and BCBSND President and CEO, emphasized the importance of supporting maternal health: "Ensuring the health and well-being of mothers is essential to building stronger families and therefore better communities. Through our Maternal Health Grants, we want to recognize and support organizations that are making a difference in the lives of moms and babies."
The foundation plans to award three grants aimed at reducing disparities in maternal health across North Dakota. Organizations interested in applying can find the application on bcbsnd.com/MaternalHealthGrants. The application process is designed to be simple and streamlined.
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