IMMEDIATE RELEASE – April 28, 2026
Media Contact: Cheryle.Rodriguez@vdh.virginia.gov
Virginia Department of Health Launches First Perinatal Health Hubs to Support Families Across the Commonwealth
Four community-based sites expand support for mothers, babies, and families
(RICHMOND, Va.) — The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) has announced the launch of the first-ever Perinatal Health Hubs Pilot Program, marking a major step forward in strengthening care for Virginia families before, during, and after childbirth. Four organizations have been selected to serve as the program’s inaugural Perinatal Health Hubs Pilot Program.
- Rockbridge Area Health Center, Lexington, VA
- Child Development Resources, Inc. Williamsburg, VA
- Johnston Memorial Hospital, Abingdon, VA
- Strength in Peers, Inc Harrisonburg, VA
Working together, these sites will serve as community anchors for a new, innovative model of maternal and infant care—one designed to better support families during pregnancy and throughout the critical first year of a child’s life.
The perinatal health hubs pilot program aims to reduce maternal and infant mortality and improve health outcomes by expanding access to coordinated, community-driven care. Each hub will customize its services to specific local needs, including an implementation plan, with contracts running through June 2027.
“Every family in Virginia deserves strong support throughout pregnancy and during that critical first year for mom and baby,” said Virginia State Commissioner Dr. Cameron Webb. “These Perinatal Health Hubs will help us work with our partners to ensure families get the comprehensive, culturally responsive care they need.”
At the heart of the hubs is a diverse, collaborative workforce focused on closing gaps in pre- and post-natal care so families will gain increased access to essential services. The hubs provide vital support to the community, perinatal health providers, and hospital systems through their access to a diverse workforce. The hubs’ variety of services include access to:
- Doulas
- Community Health Workers
- Peer support specialists
- Birth workers
- Perinatal specialists
By connecting providers, hospitals, and community organizations, the hubs are designed to create a seamless network of support—helping families navigate care with greater confidence and continuity.
The bold initiative reflects strong statewide interest in innovative maternal health solutions. VDH received applications from organizations across Virginia during the competitive process, which ran from October 31 to December 1, 2025. A review committee made up of public and private partners evaluated proposals based on organizational capacity, community engagement, project quality, data planning, and long-term sustainability.
More than 40 organizations applied, reflecting an exceptional level of interest and a strong, forward-looking vision for communities across the Commonwealth. The quality of submissions was outstanding, highlighting both innovation and a clear understanding of evolving community needs. While only four great projects were granted due to limited resources, the opportunities outlined by our applicants speak to future needs of our communities in caring for our families. Grantees were selected with consideration for regional representation. The pilot program is supported by State General Funds allocated through Chapter 725 of the 2025 Virginia Acts of Assembly. The General Assembly dedicated $2.5 million dollars over two years to establish and fund a minimum of three pilot sites across Virginia. Eligible applicants included private non-profit or for- profit organizations that deliver direct services to pregnant and postpartum families. Government organizations were not eligible.
As the program moves forward, VDH and its partners will closely track outcomes, gather data, and identify best practices—laying the groundwork for potential expansion and long-term improvements in maternal and infant health across Virginia.