FIRST 5 FUNDING AWARDED TO BLACK WELLNESS & PROSPERITY CENTER FOR POSTPARTUM PROGRAM

BWPC Team pictured with Fresno Board Supervisor Luis Chavez

On June 10, 2026, BLACK Wellness & Prosperity Center attended a press conference announcing the First 5 Fresno County Commission’s approval of $3.79 million in funding agreements with 13 local community-based organizations reaching communities across the Central Valley including Fresno, Huron, Firebaugh, Orange Cove, Cantua Creek, Mendota, and many unincorporated areas. Funding aims to increase access to critical early childhood services that address longstanding systemic inequities while strengthening the protective factors that help families remain strong, stable, and connected.

Among the funded partners, BLACK Wellness & Prosperity Center (BWPC) was awarded support to provide postpartum services. Building on BWPC’s trusted BLACK Pregnancy Support Groups, we are developing a postpartum program that will provide culturally affirming, continuous care for families from birth through age five. This ensures families don’t have to start over or retell their stories, improving care continuity and long-term health outcomes.

BWPC’s postpartum services will use a hybrid model that blends small-group connection and education with one-on-one support at home, in BWPC’s office, partner clinics, and through virtual visits. Families will be supported by a trusted team of doulas, Community Health Advocates (CHAs), and clinical providers who walk alongside them through every stage of early childhood. Postpartum care check-ins, well-child visits, and interconception care promote long-term family health and reduce health risk.

BWPC’s expansion to postpartum care is in alignment with the needs expressed by our program participants. Many parents describe feeling left to figure things out alone, and that support ends too soon. Our postpartum services will help fill that gap by offering consistent group spaces to reduce isolation alongside uniquely tailored, one-on-one support for newborn care, feeding, sleep, mental health, safety, and parenting.

By continuing care through age five, BWPC will help families stay informed, connected, and supported as their children grow. We are proud to join a coalition of community partners working to address disparities by providing resources our communities can rely on. When families have consistent support, they are better able to navigate difficult situations and help their children thrive.

For more information about BLACK Wellness & Prosperity Center, visit www.blackwpc.org.