Dayton-Area Public Health Coalitions Mobilize to Tackle Infant Mortality, Food Insecurity, and Mental Health
Dayton, OH - A network of public health coalitions is actively working across Montgomery County, ohio, to address critical issues ranging from infant mortality and maternal health support to food equity and access to mental health services. These collaborative efforts, involving local organizations, government agencies, and community members, aim to improve health outcomes and reduce disparities within the region.
These coalitions represent a multifaceted approach to public health challenges. Initiatives include replicating a successful Cincinnati-based model for reducing infant mortality countywide, providing support for pregnant mothers and babies, expanding access to healthy food, and coordinating resources for individuals facing mental health and substance use issues.
The Health Activation Think Tank, Queens Village dayton, and Moms2Be coalition focuses on tackling health equity issues and providing support to pregnant mothers and babies up to age one within designated “hope zones” to decrease infant mortality rates. Concurrently, the Partners For Change initiative, launched by Ohio Governor Mike DeWine, is expanding the cradle Cincinnati model – a proven strategy for reducing infant mortality – into Montgomery County and three other Ohio counties.
Addressing community needs beyond maternal health, United Outreach concentrates on homeless outreach, while the Montgomery County Prevention Coalition focuses on broader prevention efforts for community members. On The Front Lines SWAP facilitates collaboration regarding community resources for those with mental health and substance use issues.
Recognizing the importance of early childhood nutrition, the Greater Miami Valley Breastfeeding Coalition, now known as “The Lactation Collective,” provides a collaborative platform for supporting breastfeeding mothers. The Montgomery County Food Equity Coalition is undertaking a countywide initiative to ensure access to a healthy diet for all residents, irrespective of race, income, or ability, with teams focused on empowered communities, local farms, and thriving economies. More data on the Food Equity Coalition can be found at https://www.mcohio.org/1504/Food-equity-Coalition.
