Open Arms is the leading independent, community-based program in Washington State providing wraparound perinatal services to low-income families.
We serve nearly 300 families every year.
Between 1997 and 2020 we provided 59,182 hours of services, including 17,539 hours supporting childbirth to more than 3,900 families from 66 countries speaking 36 languages.
Since 2020, have we connected 179 families with resources to meet the growing need for mental health support, housing, transportation, domestic violence, and legal aid. We have provided 200 individual lactation support virtual visits as well as reached 22,000 individuals through online education events.
Our approach is distinct and effective. As of 2021, 95% of our families give birth at full term and at healthy birth weight, while 96.3% are breast/chestfeeding at birth and 82% are still at six months.*
- Our award-winning program is not hospital-directed or based. Our trusted, community-centered approach always prioritizes the unique cultural, linguistic, and emotional needs of each client, without a conflict of interest, and free of charge.
- Open Arms clients are referred from other community partners and agencies who trust us to provide the best possible, culturally sensitive care. Over 30% of our referrals are from previous clients who seek our services again or refer friends and family. We are proud to have earned their trust and respect.
- Positive social and educational support during this time has a tremendous impact on the health and well-being of new parents and their families.
- Research shows that women and birthing people who have doula support have fewer complications such as C-sections, have lower rates of postpartum depression, and are much more likely to breastfeed.
- When parents receive good support during birth and early postpartum, they are more likely to attach well to their baby — decreasing the risk of infant mortality and early child abuse and neglect.
- Parent-child attachment is an essential element in creating a solid foundation that ensures that the child will thrive in their learning and readiness for kindergarten and beyond.
- Reduce medical interventions and the costs of perinatal care.
- Provide education about pregnancy, birth options, breastfeeding, and positive early parenting.
- Increase self-awareness and personal advocacy skills, which set the stage for new mothers and parents to be strong and confident advocates for their children and families.
- Remove cultural barriers by providing culturally competent links from community to the health care system.
- Use culturally sensitive, evidence-based curricula shown to: improve observed parental sensitivity, improve parent knowledge of child social and emotional needs, improve child behavior and child stress physiology, and improve child welfare outcomes, including a significant reduction in foster care placements.
This document provides an overview of our programs, approach, and amazing outcomes.
*Compared to King county’s rates: 91% of people give birth at full term, 93% are at healthy birth weight, and 39% are breast/chestfeeding at six months.
