.png){kind=logo}
Your Village is Here
Healthy Babies Strong Families (HBSF) is a free program designed to support Black birthing families throughout pregnancy, birth, and the postpartum journey. As part of FFRC's commitment to reducing infant and maternal mortality, HBSF provides culturally responsive education, advocacy, and personalized support that empowers families to make informed decisions and access the resources they need to thrive. This aligns with FFRC's mission of being an extended family for participants by providing holistic, accessible support that strengthens families and communities.
​
To learn more and determine your eligibility, complete our free program interest form today.
What You'll Have Access To
Lactation
Support
Lactation education is provided during the prenatal period, starting as early as the first trimester, both virtually and in person. Ongoing support continues through the perinatal period and beyond as needed.
Doula
Services
We provide free doula support to mothers through pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period. Our doulas provide emotional, physical, and informational support to ensure a positive birthing experience.
Mental Wellness
Families Forward, in collaboration with local mental health professionals, offer mental health support to participants of the Healthy Babies, Strong Families program, assisting Black birthing individuals in managing mental health, coping with stress, and enhancing emotional well-being during their perinatal journey.
Prenatal Care
Community Health Workers assist expectant parents by guiding them through the healthcare system, to ensure timely and appropriate prenatal care. Expectant parents will receive comprehensive support and care throughout their pregnancy journey to promote a healthy pregnancy and positive birth outcomes
Pregnancy Classes
Our pregnancy classes provide expectant parents with the knowledge and skills necessary for a healthy pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum. These classes cover a range of topics, including pregnancy, prenatal care, labor and delivery, breastfeeding, newborn care, and postpartum recovery, helping parents feel informed and confident as they prepare to welcome their new baby.
THRIVE Program for the Critical 4th Trimester
Families Forward Resource Center, with NayaCare, launches the THRIVE Program, offering personalized in-home medical care and education during the critical 4th trimester—the first three months postpartum, vital for mother and baby's healthy development.
What is a Doula?
Doulas, or birth assistants, are nonclinical professionals who support birthing individuals throughout the childbirth process. They focus on providing comfort and emotional support, without offering medical care or procedures. Our Certified Doulas and Community Health Workers equip families with essential skills for labor, delivery, infant feeding, and postpartum recovery through our Childbirth Education class.
Childbirth Education Class
What You'll Learn
Stages of Labor & Delivery
Learn what to expect during each phase of labor, from early contractions to active labor and delivery. Understand the signs, physical changes, and key milestones to feel prepared and empowered for your birth experience.
Comfort Measures & Pain Management
Explore a variety of techniques to manage discomfort during labor, including breathing exercises, movement, massage, and available medical options. Discover strategies to help you stay calm, focused, and as comfortable as possible throughout childbirth.
Newborn Care Essentials
Gain confidence in caring for your baby with practical guidance on feeding, diapering, bathing, safe sleep, and soothing techniques. This section covers the basics every new parent needs to know for those important first weeks at home.
Postpartum Wellness & Recovery
Support your physical and emotional recovery after birth with information on healing, self-care, and recognizing signs of postpartum challenges. Learn about available resources and tips for adjusting to life with a newborn while prioritizing your well-being.