Black Infant Health

Our Location: 142 East California Avenue, Fresno CA 93706
Mailing: PO Box 11867, Fresno CA 93775-1867 
Phone: (559) 600-1021 
Fax: (559) 600-1132
Hours: Monday - Friday 8:00am - 5:00pm

What is the Black Infant Health (BIH) Program?

Black Infant Health is a unique program that provides support within a culturally affirming environment, honoring the unique history of African American women. Black Infant Health aims to help African American women have healthy babies. Our weekly Sista’ Talk Circle sessions help women access their own strengths, build social support, reduce stress, increase empowerment and set health-promoting goals for themselves and their babies.

 

How can a woman enroll in the program?

Women can be referred by their doctors, school nurses, Fresno County outreach workers, public health nurses or self-referral (in office, by phone, email: bih@fresnocountyca.gov or Facebook).

 

Who does the program serve?

All pregnant African American women in Fresno County regardless of income. Women must be over 18 years of age and less than 30 weeks into their pregnancy.

 

What services do we provide?

Education on pregnancy, stress reduction, labor and delivery, breastfeeding, healthy relationships and infant care. We also engage in prenatal activities such as prenatal yoga. In addition, we provide access to items for mom and baby, transportation assistance and childcare for all sessions and activities.

 

What are the benefits of the program?

The program supports and empowers young women to make healthy life choices for themselves and their families by building on their strengths.

 

What does the program cost?

The Black Infant Health Program is free.

 

How long does the program last?

Women participate in the program from 6 months to 1 year, including case management and additional events or activities. There are 10 weekly prenatal and postpartum Sista’ Talk Circle sessions for a total of 20 weeks. Each session lasting 2 hours with refreshments and childcare provided.

(PDF, 503KB)Public Health Nursing Services Referral(PDF, 511KB)