The scholarship provides free professional doula care from pregnancy through postpartum for underserved and at-risk birthing people, especially those from marginalized communities that face higher rates of maternal morbidity and mortality.
The project will run throughout the 2025 calendar year, with scholarships awarded on a rolling basis as funds allow. Recipients of birth doula support are matched with independently operating, trained doulas who are members of our organization. Each birth client receives two prenatal meetings, continuous in-person support during labor and birth, and two postpartum visits—all at no cost. Recipients of postpartum doula support are matched with a doula who provides in-home care in the weeks or months following birth, supporting the recovery period and early parenting.
The Doula Support Scholarship has two core goals: to improve birth outcomes and experiences through emotional, physical, and informational support; and to address disparities in maternal health by making this care accessible regardless of income. Research consistently shows that doula support results in better outcomes, including lower cesarean rates, shorter labors, fewer complications, reduced use of pain medication, and greater satisfaction with the birth experience. These benefits are especially critical in communities disproportionately affected by systemic inequities in healthcare.
By offering free doula services, CFAD advances its mission to make compassionate, professional support available to all families—not just those who can pay out-of-pocket. The scholarship also strengthens community health by equipping clients with evidence-based information, supporting communication with providers, and increasing confidence throughout the perinatal period. Many recipients are first-time parents, people of color, low-income individuals, or those with trauma histories, for whom unbiased, affirming care can be transformative.
This project aligns with the Endowment’s priority of improving health outcomes for vulnerable populations and advancing health equity. Racial disparities in maternal health are especially stark in our region, where Black and Indigenous birthing people face significantly higher risks. The Doula Support Scholarship helps close this gap by providing consistent, affirming, empowering care to those most in need.
Ultimately, this project is a step toward a more just, compassionate, and community-centered maternal care system—one where every person, regardless of income or identity, receives the support they deserve during one of life’s most significant transitions.