The Howard County Health Department (HCHD) has awarded funding to two local community-based organizations to strengthen prenatal and postpartum social and mental health supports for families in Howard County.
The funding responds to gaps identified by the Health Department in the availability of culturally appropriate social supports and mental health resources for pregnant and postpartum individuals. The Maternal and Infant Health program received one year funding from the County to contract with community-based organizations that are well positioned to meet families where they are and provide trusted, community-centered support.
Following a request for proposals (RFP), two organizations were selected to expand programming that enhances social connection, mental wellness and culturally responsive care during pregnancy and the postpartum period. The funding, which runs through 2026, allows these programs to be free of charge for any Howard County resident. Registration and participation are managed by the individual organizations.
“Pregnancy and the postpartum period are times of major change,” said Dr. Maura J. Rossman, Health Officer for the Howard County Health Department. “By partnering with trusted community organizations, we are expanding access to supports that help families feel connected, supported and informed during this critical time.”
"Safeguarding the health of both mom and baby helps uplift our entire community and protect our future. Mothers-to-be need specialized support as they navigate the complexities of pregnancy and the postpartum period,” said Howard County Executive Calvin Ball. “Building upon $125k in PAYGO funding to our Health Department last year, we are thrilled to partner with community organizations who can provide that specialized support so that no one feels alone during this joyful journey."
Funded Community Partners
Trinity Maternal Wellness
Trinity Maternal Wellness will expand its Momma’s United Collaborative, a community-driven program that brings together multiple Howard County-based organizations to improve maternal health outcomes and strengthen social supports across the prenatal and postpartum continuum.
Through Belly Buddies™ prenatal education and support groups and Momma’s Circle postpartum education and support groups, the program centers mental wellness, culturally responsive nutrition, maternal warning signs, and postpartum recovery. Participants also build strong peer connections and receive wraparound support.
“As a Howard County native, I’m deeply aware of the need for accessible spaces where moms can build community and feel supported” said Dr. Marilyn Berchie-Gialamas, DNP, CRNP, NP-C, Founder and Executive Director of Trinity Maternal Wellness. “Our Momma’s United Collaborative brings together local organizations and businesses to help families create a village—at no cost—with added supports like transportation to events and a kids’ corner for siblings, so all moms can attend.”
Sankofa Yoga and Wellness Center
Sankofa Yoga and Wellness Center will expand its Sankofa Maternal Wellness Initiative to reach more Howard County residents. The initiative is a comprehensive program designed to support the physical, emotional, and social wellbeing of pregnant and postpartum individuals.
The program includes prenatal yoga and meditation classes, postpartum support circles, and mental health and emotional wellbeing programming. These services help bridge the gap between clinical maternity care and community-based wellness supports.
“As a scholar, educator, and community leader, my work examines how stress, isolation, and bodily experience affect maternal health. Partnering with the Howard County Health Department enables Sankofa to deepen somatic and educational work that supports pregnancy and postpartum over time. This partnership reflects a shared commitment to maternal care that is grounded in the body, informed by learning, and sustained through community support” said Dr. Tamisha J. Ponder, Founder & CEO, Sankofa Yoga & Wellness Center.
The Health Department is working closely with both organizations to ensure programs reach families who can benefit most from additional prenatal and postpartum support.
For more information about maternal and infant health programs in Howard County, visit www.howardcountymd.gov/health/maternal-health.