Ohio Governor Mike DeWine, Lt. Governor Jim Tressel and Ohio Department of Children and Youth (DCY) Director Kara Wente announced nearly $20 million over the biennium in grants to 21 nonprofit organizations across the state through the Ohio Parenting and Pregnancy Program. These grants will connect expectant parents and caregivers to education, support and trusted local services—giving more Ohio babies a healthy start in life.
This comes as Ohio marks a significant improvement in infant health outcomes.
“Ohio’s infant mortality rate is the lowest it’s been in two decades—6.6 per 1,000 live births,” said Governor DeWine. “That’s a sign that our investments in supporting families—before, during and after pregnancy—are working. But we must keep going because every child deserves the opportunity to grow up healthy and strong.”
Through a competitive application process, DCY selected 21 grantees to deliver prenatal education, parenting classes, case management, referrals and material assistance tailored to the needs of their local communities. These efforts are part of the DeWine-Tressel Administration’s broader mission to reduce infant mortality and ensure every child in Ohio has the opportunity to live up to their potential.
“This investment reflects our commitment to strong families and healthy communities,” said Director Wente. “By supporting parents early—often before their child is even born—we’re helping them build the skills, confidence and stability they need to raise thriving children. And by working with community-based organizations across Ohio, we’re meeting families where they are with practical, meaningful support.”
Together, the 21 grantees will reach thousands of Ohio families with services tailored to the unique needs of their communities.
Local grantees include:
•Baby University – Toledo
•Bowling Green Pregnancy Center – Bowling Green
•Compassion Health Toledo – Toledo
•Hospital Council of Northwest Ohio – Toledo These organizations provide critical, communitybased services that empower young families—helping ensure that every child in Ohio has the opportunity to grow and thrive.
Now entering its second decade, the Parenting and Pregnancy Program continues to be a cornerstone of Ohio’s efforts to strengthen families, promote parenting, and build long-term stability for young children and their caregivers. This year’s increase in funding was made possible through support from the Ohio General Assembly, which approved Governor DeWine’s request for increased investment in the program as part of the current state operating budget.
