In Missouri, a disturbing trend in maternal and infant health has been highlighted by the March of Dimes’ recent report card, which gave the state a D-. This grade is particularly concerning when considering the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services‘ findings that maternal mortality increased by 40% between 2020 and 2021. Alarmingly, the mortality rate for Black women is four times higher than that for White women, with a significant portion of these deaths being preventable, primarily due to mental health issues.

Postpartum depression is a critical factor in this health crisis, affecting 1 in 8 women nationwide. However, Black women face a 1.6 times higher risk. Despite this increased risk, societal barriers often prevent Black women from seeking and receiving adequate help. This issue is exacerbated by high rates of poverty and food insecurity, further entrenching the crisis.

In response, Operation Food Search has launched the Fresh Rx: Nourishing Healthy Starts program. This initiative targets food insecurity during the first two trimesters of pregnancy, promoting the concept of food as medicine. Participants in the program receive weekly food and grocery packages, along with nutrition education and life skills training. The program also connects participants to resources for pregnancy, birth, and infant care.

A 24-month pilot study involving 75 women by Operation Food Search revealed significant benefits. The study found that proper nutrition is vital in preventing anxiety and depression during pregnancy, which, if untreated, can incur costs of around $17,000 per affected mother. Within the pilot, depressive symptoms were reduced by 14%.

The state legislature has taken steps to address this crisis, voting earlier this year to extend Medicaid coverage for pregnant women and babies from 60 days to 12 months postpartum. However, more comprehensive action is necessary. The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) requires additional funding to provide essential benefits to pregnant women, mothers, and children up to age five.

While Operation Food Search’s efforts in combating food insecurity during pregnancy are commendable, the magnitude of the problem calls for a collective response. The adage “it takes a village to raise a child” is apt here, emphasizing the need for a community-wide effort to ensure mothers are physically and mentally prepared to give birth to and nurture a healthy child. This crisis demands attention and action from multiple fronts, including healthcare, nutrition, mental health support, and broader societal changes to address systemic inequities and barriers.