WASHINGTON STATE— The Washington State Department of Health is awarding Perinatal Mental Health Access and Capacity Building grants to community organizations across the state, including the Benton-Franklin Health District (BFHD).
BFHD plans to use the funding to focus on perinatal mental health certification training specifically for Spanish-speaking providers. This initiative aims to enhance the skills of staff who deliver counseling and referrals through the Nurse Family Partnership program.
Additionally, BFHD will expand its perinatal peer support groups and evidence-based fatherhood classes. These programs emphasize peer support, healthy relationships, parenting skills and wellbeing for both fathers and birthing parents.