Community Foundation Tampa Bay Helps Expand TeleStart Support for Moms

Thanks to the generous support of Community Foundation Tampa Bay, the Healthy Start Coalition of Hillsborough County has expanded TeleStart's maternal mental health services through a $25,000 grant, helping more families access critical nurse-led prenatal care.

Out of 426 applications, only 88 organizations were selected for funding and we are honored that this important initiative was recognized.

This investment has helped TeleStart expand access to trusted, nurse-led support for pregnant and postpartum families who are at the highest risk for severe maternal morbidity, mortality, and maternal mental health challenges. Through the grant, TeleStart has introduced virtual nurse office hours and telehealth education covering critical topics such as urgent maternal warning signs, blood pressure monitoring, preterm labor, fetal kick counts, perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, postpartum depression, accessing care and other essential pregnancy and postpartum health topics.

The grant has also strengthened TeleStart's ability to provide ongoing telehealth services, timely health education, and personalized support throughout pregnancy, helping families navigate important milestones with confidence.

With the support of Community Foundation Tampa Bay, TeleStart enrolled more than 350 expectant women this past year, contributing to the program's continued growth. Since its launch, TeleStart has now served more than 1,200 women, connecting families with trusted nurses, evidence-based information, and compassionate care when they need it most.

We are deeply grateful to Community Foundation Tampa Bay for investing in healthier pregnancies, stronger families and brighter beginnings for mothers and babies throughout Hillsborough County.