NIH launches $3.1M challenge to fight maternity care deserts

The National Institutes of Health has launched the Connecting the Community for Maternal Health Challenge 2.0 aimed at underserved areas across the United States. NIH notes that 35% of U.S. counties are maternity care deserts without access to clinicians, services or medical centers. The competition will provide funding, technical assistance and mentorship to community-based organizations, advocacy groups and Native American tribes. Eligible nonprofits can submit proposals through sept. 23, with top performers competing for final awards of up to $350,000 to implement grassroots maternal health solutions.