A fund aimed at addressing Mahoning County infant mortality rates and providing care for expectant mothers was approved during a Mahoning County Public Health (MCPH) meeting on Tuesday. 

The Community and Faith-Based Infant and Maternal Health fund, part of a $9.6 million grant from the Ohio Department of Children and Youth, was passed Tuesday, MCPH Public Information Officer Jennifer Patrick says.

"MCPH will partner with local community and faith-based organizations to address gaps in systems of care for pregnant women and families with infants," Patrick said. 

Mahoning County's infant mortality rate between October 2024 and September 2025 was 7 deaths per 1,000 births, while the state's rate over the same period was 6.4 deaths per 1,000 births, according to a report from the state Department of Children and Youth.  

Patrick stated that the fund will provide information to faith leaders, outreach volunteers and congregational health ministries to help deliver accurate information on pre-conception and prenatal care. 

The fund will also help provide relevant, custom-designed maternal health education materials to those in need, she said. 

21 News is working to obtain information on the exact amount granted to Mahoning County. Patrick says that the grant was awarded to 10 organizations in counties across Ohio that have the highest infant mortality rates.