According to the US Centers for Disease Control (CDC), Montana has the 6th highest maternal mortality ratio in the nation. Racial and rural health disparities plague Montana’s health system with 52 of Montana’s 56 counties having at least one Medically Underserved Area (MUA) designation.

The Montana Obstetrics and Maternal Health Support (MOMS) program connects rural providers to obstetrical/gynecological, perinatal, mental health and substance use specialists to support providers. MOMS is a Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA)-funded grant to improve maternal health across the state of Montana.

The Rural Institute is the Research and Evaluation partner for the MOMS program.

MOMS Rapid Response Mini Grant

The purpose of the MOMS mini-grant program, with guidance from the Montana Department of Health and Human Services (DPHHS) and the Maternal Health Leadership Council, is to distribute MOMS funds to local innovative hospitals, clinics, health departments, and nonprofits working to achieve MOMS objectives. This grant program facilitates the inclusion of innovative maternal health activities in communities around Montana. The MOMS project and the Rural Institute are soliciting applications for grants $5,000-$20,000 for a total of $150,000.

These mini grants are one-time only, cash awards given to organizations that demonstrate a need for the treatment and service of maternity care. The program has a specific focus on projects that serve expecting and new mothers directly. Programs with a HPSA score of 16 or higher and/or that are serving American Indian/Alaskan Native (AI/AN) populations will be given preference.

HOW TO APPLY:

https://redcap.iths.org/surveys/?s=LXPXMW4DE4CK7A4E

Applications must be submitted by midnight on May 23, 2022.

Grant applications will be reviewed by a selection committee comprised of representatives from the Maternal Health Leadership Council, DPHHS and the Rural Institute of the University of Montana. Grantees will be notified by June 15, 2022.

For more information about the MOMS Program, please visit: https://www.mtmoms.org/about/