Denton County's Women, Infants and Children (WIC) program was one of nine agencies nationwide selected for a two-year maternal health initiative, according to a county press release.
The initiative is funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food and Nutrition Administration and led by the WIC Maternal Health Center at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. It aims to help pregnant and postpartum women recognize warning signs of severe mental morbidity and maternal mortality, and to strengthen connections to health services and resources.
Denton County's role includes taking part in a psychosocial screening and referral maternal health effort. WIC Director Fabiola Vanegas said maternal mental health is an essential part of the well-being of mothers and families in the community. She said the program can identify health concerns earlier and strengthen referrals to care.
According to officials, the county will receive funding, specialized training and ongoing technical assistance from the WIC Maternal Health Center.