A new $100 million healthcare initiative is being launched to help reduce the U.S. maternal mortality rate, with organizers aiming to cut maternal deaths in half by 2031.

Major Investment in Maternal Health

Healthy Moms, Healthy Babies America, a bipartisan initiative founded by Olivia and Tom Walton, plans to invest $100 million over five years in efforts focused on improving maternal and infant health across the United States.

The initiative will support better maternal health data, hospital reporting, rural healthcare services, midwife training and postpartum care. It is also partnering with Heartland Forward and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to collect maternal and infant health information from 220 hospitals.

Focus on Rural and Postpartum Care

The initiative comes as the United States continues to face significant challenges in maternal healthcare. Organizers say improving access to care, particularly in rural communities, will be a major part of the effort.

The program will also encourage state governments and private organizations to match investments, potentially expanding funding for maternal healthcare and rural obstetric services.

With the initiative targeting a 50% reduction in maternal deaths by 2031, the campaign could become a significant part of the national discussion around U.S. maternal mortality, healthcare access and women's health.