Benton-Franklin Health District (BFHD) is among six recipients of a grant aimed at making it easier for families during pregnancy or who recently welcomed a child to access mental health services. 

The grant, which will provide $30,000 a year for three years, was awarded by the state Department of Health and is funded by the Washington State Perinatal Collaborative, a volunteer group of public and private organizations, state agencies, health care providers, and community members, according to a release. 

“We know from the recent Maternal Mortality Review Panel Report that the majority of pregnancy-related deaths are behavioral health-related – and most are preventable,” said Lacy Fehrenbach, chief of prevention, safety and health, for DOH. “By investing in trusted community partners, DOH is finding new ways to help families get the mental health support they need during pregnancy and after birth.” 

BFHD plans to use the grant funding to prioritize perinatal mental health certification training for Spanish-speaking providers, while enhancing the skills of staff delivering counseling and referrals through the Nurse Family Partnership program. The agency will also expand its perinatal peer support groups and evidence-based fatherhood classes, which focus on peer support, promoting healthy relationships, parenting skills and well-being for both fathers and birthing parents.