Postpartum Doula Grant Program

Omaha Better Birth Project is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in Omaha, Nebraska, with a mission centered on improving maternal health equity. The organization provides direct support services to low-income and teen families to enhance birth outcomes and ensure equitable access to quality care. Through a suite of community-driven programs, Omaha Better Birth Project focuses on childbirth education, postpartum support, and doula services. Its initiatives are tailored specifically to families in the Omaha metro area, delivering evidence-based support and intervention. The Birth Doula Grant program is one of Omaha Better Birth Project's key offerings. It is designed to financially support low-income and teen families in the Omaha metro area by reducing cost barriers to accessing professional labor support. Each grant provides $1,400, which can be applied toward hiring a professionally certified birth doula of the applicant’s choice. The goal is to ensure that every family, regardless of financial status, has access to continuous labor support—a practice that has been shown to improve maternal and infant outcomes. The grant supports services that cover physical, emotional, and informational support during labor and delivery. Eligibility criteria are inclusive but targeted. Applicants must either meet the low-income guidelines as defined by Nebraska’s WIC program or be 19 years of age or younger. Additionally, applicants must be between 15 and 32 weeks pregnant and must plan to give birth in the Omaha metro area. The grant is not automatically linked to any other services the organization offers—families interested in postpartum doula support must apply separately. The application process is structured but straightforward. Applicants are required to submit proof of income and identification and sign a formal grant agreement. They are also responsible for selecting their own certified birth doula and ensuring the doula’s availability for their expected due date. Any costs beyond the $1,400 grant must be covered by the recipient. Omaha Better Birth Project must be informed of the doula selection, and all grant recipients agree to complete a postpartum follow-up survey to evaluate the impact of the program and support continuous improvement. As of now, the Birth Doula Grant application is closed for the 2025 cycle. Although no recurring cycle language is used on the website, the use of "currently closed for 2025" suggests that the program may operate on an annual basis. However, no future cycle dates are published at this time. Those with questions about the grant are encouraged to contact the Grants Program Coordinator directly via email at [email protected]. This grant is a community-level intervention aimed at addressing disparities in birth outcomes. By providing financial support for doula services, Omaha Better Birth Project empowers families to make informed choices about their birth experience while ensuring those with financial limitations still have access to continuous, professional support.