Pregnancy and the first year after birth are important periods for the health and well-being of parents and their babies. In 2023 alone, 17,392 babies were born in Sacramento County, representing thousands of families navigating pregnancy, birth, and the transition into parenthood.
Pregnancy and the months after giving birth can be joyful, but they can also bring real challenges—especially for families affected by substance use. Staying healthy during this time involves more than just getting to medical appointments. Stress, mental health needs, substance use, and difficulties meeting basic needs like housing, food, or transportation can all make it harder for parents to stay connected to care. When these challenges stack up, families may need extra support to stay safe, healthy, and engaged in services that help them thrive.
Recognizing these needs, the Healthy Beginnings Perinatal Program (HBPP) is delivered by Bridges Professional Treatment Services in partnership with Sacramento County. The program provides coordinated services for pregnant and postpartum individuals, with support available for up to 12 months after birth. Depending on individual needs, participants may receive residential treatment, outpatient treatment, or support through a sober living environment.
Who Can Receive Support?
HBPP serves individuals with a substance use disorder who are pregnant or up to 12 months postpartum, with or without co-occurring mental health needs. Medi-Cal members are eligible, as are uninsured and underinsured families. Support is also available for pregnant and postpartum individuals who may be facing additional challenges related to their living circumstances or have experienced trauma.
Families don’t have to wait for a provider to get started. Anyone can reach out on their own, and referrals from community partners are always welcome. Hospitals, OB providers, Sacramento County Behavioral Health Services, and other local partners can also help connect families to the program.
How HBPP Can Help
HBPP recognizes that getting support can be difficult when a family is also dealing with transportation, housing, or other obstacles. This program can help connect participants with valuable resources such as:
Food banks and diaper banks
Benefit systems such as WIC and Early Head Start
Parenting classes, including childbirth and infant care
Lactation and doula support
Partner engagement and employment help
Transportation assistance
Substance use disorder treatment and recovery services
Mental health treatment
Housing support
HBPP also provides care coordination to connect participants with medical services, behavioral health care, and other supports based on their individual needs. This coordinated approach can make it easier for families to find services without having to navigate every need on their own.
Connect with Healthy Beginnings
Whether you’re pregnant, have recently welcomed a new baby, or you’re a provider helping someone find support, the Healthy Beginnings Perinatal Program is here to walk alongside Sacramento families. We’re here to make it easier to get connected with the care and resources that help parents and babies thrive.
Healthy Beginnings Perinatal Program (HBPP)
Phone: (916) 452-1565
Email: perinatal@bridgesinc.net
Website: https://www.bridgesinc.net/programs/healthy-beginnings-perinatal-program/
Get Help
If you are pregnant or postpartum, or supporting someone who is, compassionate care is available 24/7 for mental health and substance use struggles. In Sacramento, you can contact the BHS SAC (Behavioral Health Services, Screening and Coordination) at 916-875-1055, or visit our website. Free or low-cost group and virtual supports are available throughout Sacramento County, including bilingual and culturally relevant options.