Perinatal Equity Initiative (PEI)

The County of Santa Clara Perinatal Equity Initiative Program is a state-funded program that aims to address the root causes of the persistent, inequitable birth outcomes and health disparities of Black mothers and their babies. PEI works with hospital and community partners to develop and implement policy and system change strategies in perinatal care settings. Working at the systemic level is the best way to reduce the impact of implicit bias and discrimination on the quality of care and birth outcomes for African/African Ancestry women.

Did you know?

In the United States:

Black babies are more likely than others to die before their first birthday.
Black mothers are more likely to die while pregnant or shortly after birth.

PEI is trying to change this with:

public education on how history, culture, and institutions impact people of color, also known as structural racism
to provide services to Black women of reproductive age
provide support to hospitals to improve care for Black mothers and babies

Who can get services?

Women who are:

African/African American
18 years of age or older
Living in Santa Clara County

All clients get services at no cost, regardless of income.

Roots Community Health gives the community education on topics like healthy eating, exercise, managing stress, and how to access healthcare. The program also empowers women, provides doula services, and connects them to local resources.

Story Map

African/African Ancestry Maternal and Infant Health Outcomes

In Santa Clara County, African/African Ancestry mothers and infants have the highest rates for preterm birth, infant mortality, and severe maternal morbidity compared to other racial/ethnic groups. Across California, African/African Ancestry women are three to seven times more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes than Asian/Pacific Islander, Hispanic, and White women. Nationally, this issue has been referred to as the Black maternal health crisis. Visit our story map to learn more.