Are you pregnant or a new parent? Do you know an Aboriginal family who is expecting or has a new baby?
 
The BC Association of Aboriginal Friendship Centres (BCAAFC) and First Nations Health Authority (FNHA) are proud to jointly offer funding to cover the costs of birth doula and postpartum doula services for pregnant Aboriginal mothers and families, living in BC (both on and off reserve). This partnership works towards bringing birth closer to home and back into the hands of women.
 
Grants provide funding up to a maximum of $1000.00 in coverage for doula services for each woman’s birth and postpartum needs. Speaking with your doula about your birth plan will help to distribute the grant funds based on your needs during pregnancy and at home following delivery. Payment is made directly to a doula after pre-approval and after BCAAFC has received their invoice for the doula care provided.
 
A birth doula can provide emotional, physical and spiritual support for women and families during pregnancy, labour and following birth. A birth doula is a non-clinical provider who works with an expectant mother, their family and their physician, midwife or nurse to support the pregnancy. Birth doula care can increase the likelihood of a healthy pregnancy, positive birth experience, vaginal birth, breastfeeding, and bonding for the mother and child. Studies show that accessing the services of a birth doula can help to decrease interventions during labour and delivery, such as epidurals and caesarian sections.
 
A postpartum doula is trained to provide support and education to mothers, partners and families during the first three months of a baby’s life. A postpartum doula acts as both a mentor and guide as she/he helps a family care for their new baby. A postpartum doula offers evidence-based information on newborn care, infant feeding, mother care and coping skills for new parents.
 
Connecting to doula care can be particularly important if you are leaving your community to give birth and would benefit from extra support while being away from home. Women and families can apply to register for this grant program on their own or work with a health provider to get help in applying.

An overview of frequently asked questions about the program and the family registration form can be found on BCAAFC’s website at: bcaafc.com/dafgp.

 
Please help to spread the word about this expanded grant program!
 
For More Information Contact:
Doula Program Coordinator
doulaprogram@bcaafc.com
250-940-4891​