According to the latest reports from the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control, infant and maternal mortality rates are increasing in the state. In 2021, there was a 12 percent increase in infant mortality rates, after slight declines in previous years. Similarly, the South Carolina Maternal Mortality and Morbidity Review Committee's report for 2019 showed a 9.3 percent increase in maternal deaths from the previous year.

The racial disparities in these statistics are staggering. Black mothers and infants are at a significantly higher risk of dying than white mothers and infants. This disparity is deeply concerning and highlights the urgent need for action to address the underlying issues contributing to these alarming trends.

South Carolina First Steps recognizes the gravity of this issue and is committed to working towards systemic change. By focusing on evidence-based, whole-family programs and community-driven initiatives, First Steps aims to make quality supports available to all families in South Carolina, regardless of zip code, race, or socioeconomic status.

At First Steps, we recognize the importance of serving children and families where they are. That's why we offer a range of programs that are tailored to the unique needs of communities and families. We deliver one-on-one support through parenting programs like Parents as Teachers, where a highly trained parent educator provides equal attention to the baby's health and well-being as they do to the parents'. By enrolling families in these programs early, ideally prenatally, better outcomes are possible.

We are in clinics, offering services like HealthySteps, which provides whole-family, team-based pediatric care to ensure that children receive the care they need to thrive. Through HealthySteps, families receive guidance on everything from prenatal wellness and child development to nutrition and safety.

We are in child care centers, ensuring that classrooms are safe, healthy, and nurturing environments for young children. Our child care trainers and coaches provide professional development to teachers and caregivers, helping them to improve the quality of their programs and meet state standards for health and safety.

Our efforts are working, but our reach alone is not enough. It is only through collaborative efforts that we can begin to address the racial disparities in infant and maternal mortality rates and create a state that is truly equitable for all. First Steps is committed to working together with other agencies and community partners to build a South Carolina that all parents and babies want, need, and deserve.

Topics: Local Partnerships, Data, First Steps 4K, Health, Parenting, Early Care and Education, Home Visiting, Equity, 2Gen