The State of Birth Equity: Catalyzing Place-Based Philanthropy

The United States is the only industrialized nation in the world where maternal mortality is rising, despite spending more money per capita on maternal health, and the racial disparities for birthing people are widening.

Maryland has higher rates of overall maternal vulnerability and preterm birth rates, compared to its neighbors. The state’s rates of infant mortality and inadequate prenatal care are higher than the national average. The 2023 March of Dimes Report Card, which highlights key indicators to describe and improve maternal and infant health, gives Maryland a C- grade. The state’s preterm birth rate (10.3%) has a significant racial disparity, especially among Black birthing people. More than four in five pregnancy-related deaths in the U.S. are preventable, with mental health conditions leading the underlying causes of death.

Philanthropy has a unique and critical catalytic role to play, working in partnership with government and community leaders at the state-level to shift policies, redirect public and private funding flows towards cost effective solutions, and support community centered care and services to eliminate these disparities and improve outcomes for all birthing people. 

Join Maryland Philanthropy Network’s Health and Prenatal-to-Five Funders Affinity Groups to discuss with representatives from Boldly Gold Philanthropy and the Community Health Acceleration Partnership (CHAP) the opportunities collaborative funding in Maryland can serve to connect community and government, build a stronger and more diverse birth workforce, and create thriving ecosystems of community-based organizations to improve outcomes. Maryland Department of Health’s  Elizabeth Kromm, PhD, Director, Prevention and Health Promotion Administration, will share the Department's  vision for maternal health and overall women's health.  Dr. Kromm will provide an overview of current initiatives across the perinatal continuum as well as discuss opportunities for partnership with philanthropy. 

This program is for Maryland Philanthropy Network members and invited guests only. Lunch will be provided for in-person attendees.