Didi Hirsch Mental Health Services has received a generous $150,000 grant from Cedars-Sinai as part of its Black Birth Equity Initiative. Through this grant, the Didi Hirsch Enhanced Care Management (ECM) program will deepen its services by partnering with women’s health clinics that serve a high number of Black patients, collaborating with community organizations addressing housing and food security, and training program staff in culturally competent, equity-focused care. As a result, our clients will be empowered to confidently navigate the health and social services system, gaining the education and support needed to improve birth outcomes for Black mothers and infants.
The need for this initiative is crucial–the difference between life and death. According to the CDC, Black women in the U.S. experience maternal mortality at a rate that is more than three times higher than any other group, with 50.3 deaths per 100,000 live births in 2023. Black infants also face alarming disparities, dying at a rate of 10.9 per 1,000 live births.
The ECM program plays a key role in addressing these disparities. ECM is a state-driven initiative aimed at tackling social determinants of health. It offers Medi-Cal managed care plan members a range of case management to address complex health and social needs such as housing, food security, and healthcare access. Our ECM Birth Equity Initiative offers comprehensive care that begins during pregnancy and continues after the child’s birth.
For Glenda Rivers, Director of the ECM Program at Didi Hirsch, this initiative is deeply personal. A Black mother herself, she has firsthand experience with the challenges many Black birthing people face. “Why are Black women dying at such disproportionate rates? It’s not just about access—it’s about advocacy, education, and disrupting systemic barriers,” she explains. “We’re working to connect our clients with doulas, midwives, and lactation consultants—resources that many aren’t even aware are available.”
Cedars-Sinai is a dedicated partner in this work. As Cedars-Sinai’s Access to Care Program Officer, Tshema [Tesh-ma] Nash, DrPH, emphasizes, “Cedars-Sinai is committed to bolstering birth equity efforts in Los Angeles to support Black birthing people in having healthy and joyous reproductive experiences. As such, we are thrilled to support Didi Hirsch Mental Health Services in their efforts to investigate and implement strategies to ensure healthy and happy birth outcomes.”
This initiative is more than just a program—it’s a necessary step toward justice in maternal and infant healthcare. With the support of Cedars-Sinai, Didi Hirsch is making a tangible impact, ensuring Black mothers and their babies receive the care, resources, and advocacy they deserve.
