What is Boston Healthy Start Initiative (BHSI)?
Boston Healthy Start Initiative (BHSI) is a federally funded program whose goal is to eliminate disparities in perinatal health. We have been funded since 1991 to ensure that Black pregnant women receive quality health care by funding case management, health education, interconceptional care, and maternal depression services. We currently fund many community-based agencies and neighborhood health centers in Roxbury, North and South Dorchester, Mattapan, Hyde Park, South End, and parts of Jamaica Plain.
What kind of services can I receive?
If you self identify as a Black pregnant woman you will receive services through a case manager who has experience in maternal and child health issues. Call (617) 534-7828, to ask for a health center near your home. If you already have a health center call them and ask to speak to a BHSI case manager. She will ensure that you receive the services you need.
BHSI CONSORTIUM
BHSI relies heavily on its Consortium. The Boston Healthy Start Consortium is a partnership of community residents and agencies, and local government health organizations. The Consortium meets on a monthly basis to share ideas, and establish a community voice to address social and economic factors that cause poor health, and infant mortality. The consortium defines goals and objectives and implement shared priorities for BHSI. It also helps BHSI develop annual priorities for enhancement of case management and other services.
Join the Consortium
Meetings are held the third Wednesday of the month (there are no meetings in July and August) at New Academy Estates Community Center, 2908 Washington Street, Roxbury, MA 02119, from 5:30 to 7:00 PM. Please call (617) 534- 7828 to add your name to the dinner list, or if you need transportation. Dinner is served at 5:30 PM.
Can I attend the Consortium meetings?
Yes please do. Community residents of Roxbury, Dorchester, Mattapan, Hyde Park, South End, and Jamaica Plain, can attend the meetings. We also encourage religious organizations, business owners, and community based agencies to attend.
Please check the Calendar for the monthly Consortium meetings.