NICU Family Support®
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Local Programs
- We work to improve the health of babies across the country.
- Programs are aimed at supporting moms-to-be and professionals.
- We offer comfort and support to families with a baby in the NICU.
The Coming of the Blessing
A March of Dimes initiative called The Coming of the Blessing is addressing high rates of infant death and premature birth among American Indian and Alaska Native babies. The initiative was created by the March of Dimes American Indian/Alaska Native (AI/AN) Women’s Committee. This group of women, representing 10 different tribes, developed health education resources that embrace the cultural and spiritual beliefs related to pregnancy and childbirth shared by many Native people. By emphasizing the strong family and community bonds; the deep and profound respect for nature, life, ancestors, women and children; we can help babies have a fighting chance.
Women from more than 30 tribes, Nations and pueblos have benefited from The Coming of the Blessing. According to a survey of women who participated, 90 percent changed a behavior to be healthier during pregnancy. Mothers made specific changes related to nutrition, stress reduction and the decision to breast feed. Although American Indian and Alaska Native mothers have the highest rate of inadequate prenatal care (23.8 percent) of all racial/ethnic groups, 88 percent of the moms who received prenatal education through The Coming of the Blessing kept all of their prenatal appointments. The preterm birth rate among American Indians and Alaska Natives is more than 14 percent. For women participating in The Coming of the Blessing, the rate was reduced to 7 percent. As a result of these findings, the program is designated as a “promising practice” by Indian Health Service.
Women from more than 30 tribes, Nations and pueblos have benefited from The Coming of the Blessing. According to a survey of women who participated, 90 percent changed a behavior to be healthier during pregnancy. Mothers made specific changes related to nutrition, stress reduction and the decision to breast feed. Although American Indian and Alaska Native mothers have the highest rate of inadequate prenatal care (23.8 percent) of all racial/ethnic groups, 88 percent of the moms who received prenatal education through The Coming of the Blessing kept all of their prenatal appointments. The preterm birth rate among American Indians and Alaska Natives is more than 14 percent. For women participating in The Coming of the Blessing, the rate was reduced to 7 percent. As a result of these findings, the program is designated as a “promising practice” by Indian Health Service.
