THE FOLLOWING IS A DANVILLE BIRTH PROJECT RELEASE
HOSTING EDUCATIONAL DOCUMENTARY EVENT AT THE FISCHER THEATER
New Needs-Based Program One of the First Like it Outside Chicago
Danville, IL, Dec 2, 2024 – Newly formed local non-profit Danville Birth Project is excited to announce a groundbreaking new program, in collaboration with the Vermilion County Health Department, that seeks to improve low breastfeeding rates in Vermilion County and mitigate the lifelong negative consequences that come from a lack of appropriate support for breastfeeding mothers.
The program is funded through the Illinois Public Health Initiative grant and provides fully covered financial support for in-home lactation consultations for qualifying Vermilion County families.
“A successful breastfeeding relationship has a lifelong impact. In too many communities, there simply isn’t a support network to address a struggling mother’s questions. That’s not fair, and we want to help change that,” Hannah Landis, President of DBP, said.
The innovative new program is one of the first in the state outside the Chicago area, and through provision of free, accessible support, DBP hopes to help families establish successful breastfeeding practices, crucial for the health and well-being of both mothers and babies. The program was made possible by an important collaboration with the Vermilion County Health Department.
“Without the support and vision of the Health Department, we wouldn’t be able to provide this support. We really can’t thank them enough for their dedication to the people of Vermilion County,” Landis said. She added that this is hopefully just the first in what she sees as a long and fruitful collaboration with VCHD, and that DBP has big plans for improving birth outcomes and equity in Vermilion County.
“There’s just so much work to do, and we’re just starting on our mission to expand access to essential services not currently covered under Medicaid. We look forward to finding and working with others, like us, who feel that birth matters,” she said.
Upcoming Event: Documentary Screening of “Born Free: Birth in America”
On Thursday December 12th at 6:00 pm, Danville Birth Project is sponsoring a special screening of the powerful documentary “Born Free: Birth in America” at the historic Fischer Theater in downtown Danville. The event will include a post-screening panel discussion featuring local experts and community leaders. The film’s themes explore surprising facts regarding maternal health that relate to the mission of the Danville Birth Project and the unique challenges faced by Vermilion County.
Born Free: Birth In America
December 12, 2024
6:00pm CST
Historic Fischer Theater, 158 N. Vermilion Danville IL
Panel Discussion:Following the screening
We encourage community members, healthcare providers, and families to attend this insightful event as we work together to foster a supportive environment for maternal health in our region.
ABOUT DANVILLE BIRTH PROJECT:
The Danville Birth Project is a 501c3 nonprofit committed to improving birth equity and outcomes in Vermilion County through innovative funding models and programs, as well as enhancing the health of mothers and babies in Vermilion County through education, support, and advocacy. Our programs are designed to empower families with the knowledge and resources they need to thrive during the crucial early stages of parenthood.
Follow us on social media: https://www.facebook.com/danvillebirthproject
