The Role of Community and Faith-Based Organizations in Improving Maternal/Child Health and Breastfeeding in the Latino Community

Hispanic health experts, researchers, and community-based leaders from around the country are gathering June 12-13 in Washington DC  to develop recommendations for a national demonstration project that utilizes the strengths of faith and community based organizations to improve maternal and child health within the Hispanic community. The maternal health “Solutions Dialogue” is being hosted by the National Alliance for Hispanic Families, Urban Strategies, and the Center for New Communities, with support from the W.K. Kellogg Foundation.

Low-income, minority groups experience a higher prevalence of health problems.  Recognizing that many of the health challenges such as diabetes, asthma, obesity, and chronic disease stem from behaviors and practices established early in life, even as early as the pre-natal stage, prevention, and wellness strategies could positively impact the Hispanic population.

“As Hispanics are the fastest growing segment of our nation, it is imperative to our country’s vitality that we employ an all-hands-on-deck approach to improving the health and well-being of our Hispanic families early in their formation,” says Dr. Lorena Gonzalez, Urban Strategies National Director of Hispanic Initiatives.

The specific objectives of the two-day “Solutions Dialogue” are to:

• Develop a common understanding of maternal/child health needs — especially breastfeeding — within the Latino community
• Identify the role of community and faith-based organizations in Latino maternal health
• Identify barriers faced by community and faith-based organizations in addressing maternal/child health in Hispanic communities
• Develop strategies to encourage effective participation of community and faith-based organizations in delivering maternal/child health services to Latino communities.