Within the next week, First 5 Orange County will release a funding opportunity to select one or more agencies to implement a Black Infant Health (BIH) program. We will be seeking organizations that have the values, experience, and infrastructure to implement the BIH program in Orange County. The opportunity will be posted to our website at: www.first5oc.org and sent via e-blast.
Background: In October 2023, Orange County was awarded its inaugural Black Infant Health (BIH) program grant from the California Department of Public Health’s Maternal, Child and Adolescent Health Division. This vital initiative, funded through Federal Title V MCH Block Grant funds, Federal Title XIX (Medicaid) funds, and State General funds, aims to improve Black infant and maternal health and decrease the inequities in mortality rates.
The OC Health Care Agency received the award and subcontracted a portion of the grant to First 5 Orange County, given our focus on the prenatal to five population and ability to reach qualified community-based organizations that can ramp up quickly to implement BIH. The Health Care Agency and First 5 Orange County are working collaboratively to support the success of BIH.
Funding Opportunity: The upcoming funding opportunity is open to all interested agencies including those not currently funded by First 5 Orange County. We encourage all interested organizations to apply, including those outside of Orange County. Interested organizations must have a clear plan for providing services within Orange County in a centralized location that is safe, accessible, and culturally affirming for Black families.
Once the funding opportunity is released, First 5 Orange County will receive questions from interested organizations at First5OC@cfcoc.ocgov.com as a part of the process.
We encourage community stakeholders to share this notice with your partners.