TITLE
Recommendation to authorize City Manager, or designee, to execute all necessary agreements and any subsequent amendments between the City of Long Beach and the March of Dimes California Chapter, to accept funding in the amount of $41,699 for the period of March 1, 2016 through February 28, 2017, for a program specifically developed for African-American women who are at high-risk of depression, chronic disease, and premature or low birth weight deliveries. (Citywide)
DISCUSSION
Rates of premature deliveries in African-American women are nearly 30 percent higher than that of the general population. The statistics are similar for low birth weight babies. Both of these conditions greatly increase the risk of developmental disabilities, health problems, and premature death. Stress is thought to be a significant contributor to poor birth outcomes in this population. This program targets participants in the Black Infant Health (BIH) program, as well as other African-American women who are not BIH-eligible, but who are at risk of poor birth outcomes due to extreme stressors in their lives, such as domestic violence, homelessness, depression, and race-related stressors (i.e., stereotyping, discrimination, racism).
The March of Dimes California Chapter has awarded the City of Long Beach $41,699 for the Department of Health and Human Services (Health Department) to continue the Destined for Greatness program for a second year. The program is aimed at decreasing depression and increasing positive coping skills, such as physical activity, in order to positively impact mental health, chronic disease prevention, and healthy birth outcomes.
The Destined for Greatness Program is offered as part of the Health Department’s Black Infant Program, and consists of four 6-week stress reduction/relaxation class series, and an 8-week physical activity class series.
This matter was reviewed by Deputy City Attorney Linda Vu on October 23, 2015 and by Budget Officer Victoria...
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