Addressing Black maternal health disparities in Woonsocket, Rhode Island
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Abstract
Due to systemic racism, socioeconomic disparity, and restricted access to high-quality healthcare, Black women in the US experience disproportionately high rates of maternal morbidity and mortality. Communities like Woonsocket, Rhode Island that have some of the highest rates of delayed prenatal care, preterm births, and low birthweight infants in the state, are particularly affected by these inequities. Through a community-based study carried out in collaboration with the Rhode Island Department of Health and the WATCH Coalition, this thesis investigates asset-based interventions to reduce poor maternal health outcomes among low-income and Black mothers in Woonsocket. This research thesis explores how systemic, socioeconomic, and academic barriers relate and affect maternal health disparities among Black mothers in Woonsocket, Rhode Island, and how community driven interventions can address these disparities. Secondary data demonstrates significant risk factors in Woonsocket that contribute to local gaps in maternal health outcomes across race and socioeconomic status, such as access to reproductive health care, financial instability, and educational disparities. Data collected from a focus group of Woonsocket mothers reveal the values, priorities, and strengths of local women that can be leveraged to promote maternal wellness. The findings of this research informed the development of The Watchful Moms Initiative, a peer-led, asset-focused program that offers parenting, financial literacy, and workforce development training. Through its train-the-trainer methodology, The Watchful Moms Initiative empowers participants to become community educators, helping to ensure the initiative’s sustainability and cultural relevance. This thesis concludes that investing in community-based interventions and creating structural change are essential to mitigate maternal health disparities. Programs like Watchful Moms provide a model for enhancing maternal health outcomes through local collaboration and elevating the voices of Black and low-income mothers.
Description
2025