Maternal and Child Health

Maternal and Child Health

mother and child in Guatemala

Maternal and Child Health

What We Do

Catholic Relief Services works to prevent and treat the leading causes of maternal and child deaths in developing countries. CRS helps children and their mothers survive by implementing high-impact, evidence-based interventions

How We Do it

Engaging households: At the household level, CRS and our partners counsel parents on disease prevention, early detection of danger signs and seeking prompt treatment to avoid preventable deaths. CRS creates a safe environment for active male involvement to support improved maternal and child health outcomes. 

Supporting communities: CRS strengthens community systems in remote areas where health care is frequently inaccessible. We work in partnership with ministries of health and civil society organizations to develop community-based services to provide essential preventive, curative and rehabilitative health care. CRS supports just and equitable distribution of health resources and the formation of sustainable community-based health networks by building partnerships between community-based organizations and sub-national health systems. 

Strengthening health systems: Well-run health facilities are critical for saving women and children’s lives. CRS works with a wide range of partners to strengthen health systems to improve maternal and child health outcomes. Health workers and facility staff members receive guidance and training in managing health operations to provide quality care. 

Where We Work

Explore the regions where CRS is transforming lives through your generosity. From Africa to Latin America, discover stories of hope and resilience across the globe.

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With a team of Communications staff around the world, we can provide real-time updates during emergencies and on a wide variety of current issues and events facing the developing world and the international community.