Catholic Charities North Dakota locations in Minot, Bismarck, Fargo and Grand Forks received one of three 2025 Maternal Health Grants from Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Dakota Caring Foundation, the foundation announced.

The nonprofit Catholic Charities is enhancing maternal health efforts by providing support services to families two generations at a time through the necessary transportation to appointments, parent education and more, according to foundation information.

Also receiving grants were the Indigenous Association, Fargo, and the Richland County Health Department, Wahpeton area.

The Caring Foundation launched the grant program after partnering with North Dakota State University Center for Social Research to conduct a maternal health study. “Health Well-Being in North Dakota Closeup” highlighted positive news happening in the state for maternal health but also revealed many opportunities to improve gaps that mothers and families face.

According to the study, 59% of mothers reported experiencing at least one Adverse Childhood Experience (ACE), with 29% reporting three or more. Multiple ACEs are linked to negative health outcomes in adulthood, affecting both mothers and their children.

Women in rural areas and Indigenous communities are more likely to experience delayed or inadequate prenatal care, and more than 70% of North Dakota moms live in a maternity desert, according to the study. Also about one in four North Dakota mothers experience symptoms of postpartum depression, with higher rates among those with multiple ACEs or limited support systems.

“These grants represent how the power of community-driven solutions can advance maternal well-being. These three organizations are leading critical efforts to uplift women’s health across North Dakota. Their dedication to creating lasting change for mothers, babies and the entire communities is one to be celebrated,” said Amber Blomberg, BCBSND Caring Foundation executive director.