WHO WE ARE
HISTORY
GET TO KNOW US
Healthy Start Inc. supports women, children, fathers, families and communities through comprehensive community-based programming, systems coordination, advocacy, research and training. Our programming spans Allegheny and Westmoreland Counties.
We are part of a network of more than 100 community-based Healthy Start projects across the United States. Our goal is to make sure all families have access to affordable, quality care to improve maternal and child health outcomes and quality of life.
We use a multidisciplinary team model which is inclusive of Community Health Workers, Certified Lactation Consultants and Counselors, Lamaze Certified Childbirth Educators, Certified Doulas, nurses, licensed mental health clinicians, researchers, Community Health Advocates and other public health practitioners who touch the entire community—galvanized in support of a vision where communities are devoid of health disparities and all babies have the opportunity to thrive.
We are a designated Best Babies Zone organization, and in collaboration with the Allegheny County Health Department Maternal Child Health Program, a participant in the CityMatCH Institute for Equity in Birth Outcomes (also known as the Equity Institute).
We work with local residents, medical providers, social service agencies, businesses and faith-based organizations to reduce the infant mortality rate (IMR) and the number of low birth weight babies born in Allegheny County each year.
​
Demonstration Phase
The Allegheny County Healthy Start project was one of only 15 national sites originally included in the 1991–1996 demonstration phase of the program.
​
Today, Healthy Start serves 104 projects in 39 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico. Through the creation and implementation of truly innovative programs, Healthy Start has seen a steady decrease in infant mortality and low birth weight rates.​
ANNUAL REPORT
Healthy Start’s annual report provides an overview of our impact, financials, and key milestones from the past year. View Report.
VISION
Healthy Start provides support to women and children in need through free health programs and services in their communities. Healthy Communities, Healthy Families, Healthy Babies, Healthy Start.
MISSION
The mission of Healthy Start is to improve maternal and child health and to reduce poor birth outcomes and infant mortality in Allegheny County.
STRATEGIC PLAN
Our Strategic Plan (2025–2028) lays the foundation for building healthy communities and equitable systems of care. View Plan.