Are there any general supports available for pregnant women or mothers with very young children?

Disclaimer: We strive to keep the information on this page accurate and up to date. However, programs and requirements can change, and we may not always be aware of those changes immediately. If you notice any outdated or incorrect information, or if you have suggestions for additional resources we should include, please reach out to your community's Resources and Opportunities (R&O) manager to make them aware of the changes needed.

Parenting Resources

• Practical Parenting Podcast - The Practical Parenting podcast is run by doctors at GBMC HealthCare and is designed to support parents. It offers insight and guidance on many important childraising topics. 

• HealthyChildren.Org - HealthyChildren.org is the official parenting website created by the The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) . Its purpose is to provide parents and caregivers with trustworthy, science-based information about children’s health and development, from infancy through young adulthood. The site covers a wide range of topics, including growth and developmental milestones, common illnesses, nutrition, safety, mental health, behavior, and parenting guidance. It is a comprehensive resource for parents seeking accurate and up-to-date advice on raising healthy children.
   

Breastfeeding

Insurance Coverage (ACA-compliant and Marketplace Plans)

• Breast pumps (manual or electric) must be provided at no cost either rented or purchased, depending on what your plan allows. Preauthorization and a prescription may be required. 

• Lactation counseling and support (in-person, hospital postpartum nurses, or virtual sessions) are typically included for the duration of breastfeeding. 

• Additional supplies: Some plans may also cover accessories like milk storage bags, extra flanges, postpartum wraps, or even abdominal binders. 

WIC & Medicaid Programs

• WIC: Low-income qualifying mothers may receive a breast pump loan or support through their local WIC office. 

Additional Postpartum & Infant Care Supplies

• Hospitals: Many hospitals provide samples of formula, diapers, wipes, and baby care kits at discharge. 

• Support equipment via insurance:

  • Postpartum supplies like perineal pads, Sitz bath kits, disposable underwear, or postpartum compression garments may be covered if doctor-approved.

• Mental health: Plans often include postpartum depression screenings, therapy, and psychiatric care.

• Home and virtual visits: Some programs provide in-home or telehealth visits by nurses, midwives, or lactation consultants.

• Lactation Consultants: Some hospitals have lactation consultants to support breastfeeding needs and 

• Formula assistance:

  • WIC offers formula support if eligible. 

  • Brand programs (e.g., Enfamil Family Beginnings, Similac StrongMoms) sometimes provide free samples and coupons.

• Diapers:

  • Diaper brands offer sample packs and welcome bundles through rewards programs (Pampers Club, Huggies Rewards, etc.).

  • Diaper Banks and local nonprofits (via 211 helplines) provide free diapers for low-income families. 

Early Literacy and Book Programs

Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library

• What it offers: A free book monthly to children from birth to age 5, chosen age-appropriate and shipped to your home. No income eligibility. Check for availability in your area.

Baltimore City Programs

• B’more for Healthy Babies (BHB) - Led by the Baltimore City Health Department and Family League, BHB aims to reduce infant mortality and enhance prenatal and infant health through multiple initiatives:
• Maternal & Infant Care Program - Offers free in-home visits from nurses, social workers, and outreach workers to pregnant women and infants across Baltimore City—connecting them with vital health supports.
• HealthCare Access Maryland (HCAM) - Can help pregnant women self-refer to programs. Also facilitates home visiting, Moms Clubs, doula services, and WIC access.
• Women, Infants & Children (WIC) - Provides nutrition support, counseling, and food vouchers for pregnant women and children under five. Multiple clinics serve Baltimore City.
• Baltimore Medical System — Healthy Babies
• GBMC - Doula Birth and Postpartum Support - Provides postpartum doulas who assist with infant care, breastfeeding support, household help, emotional support, errand runs, and more.
• ShareBaby - Distributes essential items—like diapers and baby supplies—to vulnerable families in Baltimore City through community partnerships.
  • ShareBaby organizes donations through community partnerships, including Thread. Talk to your Resources and Opportunities Manager to inquire about baby supplies. 

Community Groups

Library Storytimes & Playgroups - Local libraries (e.g., Enoch Pratt) host storytimes that are popular meeting spots for parents and children.

Facebook & Community Parent Groups - Neighborhood-specific parent groups like "Baltimore City Kids," “Mobtown Mommies: The Exchange II,” and others on platforms like Facebook or Nextdoor help build community connections and buy second-hand items.