United Way of the Greater Capital Region to Launch Application for Jubilant Birth Albany on International Women’s Day

March 6, 2025 | Albany, NY — In celebration of International Women’s Day on Saturday, March 8, 2025, United Way of the Greater Capital Region (UWGCR) will start accepting applications for Jubilant Birth Albany, a groundbreaking pilot program designed to improve maternal health and birth outcomes for underserved communities in Albany County. After more than two years of planning and coalition-building, this program will provide direct financial support and community-based health services to help alleviate financial stress for expectant mothers, reduce maternal and infant health disparities, and promote birth equity.

Unveiled in November 2024, Jubilant Birth Albany is a community-driven initiative that will provide $1,000 per month for 12 months to 28 low-income, pregnant women in Albany County. This cash assistance is intended to ease the financial burdens associated with pregnancy and early parenting, ultimately lowering stress and improving health outcomes for both mothers and their infants.

“Jubilant Birth Albany is a testament to United Way’s unique ability to unite a diverse coalition of funders, community partners, and advocates around a shared commitment to improving maternal health and birth equity,” said Peter Gannon, UWGCR’s President & CEO. “This program will provide critical financial assistance and community-based services to expectant mothers who have historically lacked access to the care they need. By reducing financial stress and ensuring access to essential resources, we can improve health outcomes for mothers and their children and help families build a foundation for long-term well-being.”

A Collaborative Effort to Improve Maternal Health

Jubilant Birth Albany’s launch follows over two years of collaboration led by UWGCR, uniting funders, stakeholders, and community organizations to improve birth outcomes for families in need. The initiative is made possible by generous investments from the Carl E. Touhey Foundation ($325,000), Highmark Blue Shield of Northeastern New York ($175,000), a $200,000 ARPA grant from Albany County, and Hudson Valley Credit Union ($5,000).

Comprehensive Support Beyond Cash

In addition to financial assistance, participants will have access to a range of prenatal, birthing, and postnatal support services provided by United Way’s community partners, including BirthNet, CEK RN Consulting, and the March of Dimes. The program is built on the principle that cash, combined with culturally responsive care and health accompaniment—including doulas of color and health coaches—can help pregnant individuals navigate a healthcare system where disparities persist.

“We're excited to partner with United Way of the Greater Capital Region, March of Dimes, and CEK RN to ensure that families most impacted by birth outcome disparities have access to vital prenatal, birth, and postpartum doula services,” said Tershia Ellis, Board Chair of BirthNet. “This collaboration is a step toward improving birth outcomes and creating more equitable care for marginalized communities.”

“We look forward to partnering with BirthNet, March of Dimes, and United Way on Jubilant Birth Albany, which is set to begin on March 8,” said Coretta Killikelly, Founder and CEO, CEK RN Consulting. “At CEK RN Consulting, Inc., we believe that every pregnant mother deserves the support and guidance needed for a healthy and joyful pregnancy. We are ready to do our part and beyond through our maternal program, which is committed to providing personalized health coaching that empowers mothers and fosters a nurturing environment for their families. Together, we are taking significant steps towards healthier communities and brighter futures.”

“March of Dimes is committed to supporting innovative solutions that address the social drivers of health impacting birthing individuals and babies,” said Kathryn Mitchell, National Director of Maternal Health and Collective Impact at March of Dimes. “By providing families with critical financial resources, Jubilant Birth Albany enables parents to prioritize their health and well-being, fostering healthier pregnancies and offering children a stronger start in life.”

Addressing a Critical Need in Maternal Health

Albany County’s maternal health indicators highlight significant disparities, particularly for Black mothers, who experience disproportionately high rates of preterm births and infant mortality compared to their white counterparts.

Key statistics underscore the urgent need for intervention:

The infant mortality rate for Black babies in Albany County (14.6 per 1,000 live births) is significantly higher than that of white (4.0), Asian/Pacific Islander (2.1), and Hispanic (8.6) babies.
13% of Black babies in Albany County are born prematurely, vs. 10% overall.
At 12.2%, Black women are twice as likely as white women to have a baby with a low birth weight (below 5.5 lbs.).

Through Jubilant Birth Albany, United Way and its partners aim to directly address these disparities and create better health outcomes for families across the county.

How to Apply

Eligible pregnant individuals in Albany County can apply for Jubilant Birth Albany beginning Saturday, March 8, 2025, by visiting unitedwaygcr.org/birth. Applications are limited to 28 participants.

Eligibility Requirements:

•   Participants must be at least 18 years of age
•   Between 20–28 weeks pregnant (as of 3/8/25)
•   Live in Albany County, NY
•   Have a household income within the eligible range (income eligibility chart)

Each participant will also undergo a benefits' analysis to ensure fully informed decision-making regarding how the cash payments might impact their existing benefits.

For more information, contact: Matt Hunter | UWGCR Director of Strategic Communications | (518) 225-0641 | matt@unitedwaygcr.org