Florida Association of Healthy Start Coalitions

Healthy Start was enacted by state legislature with the goal of reducing infant mortality, the number of low birth weight babies, and improving health and developmental outcomes.  Healthy Start Coalitions across the state are charged with developing and implementing quality systems of care by allocating maternal and child health dollars into the community.

Infant mortality, the sentinel indicator of child health and well-being, is at its lowest level in Florida's history. Infant death rates have dropped 22 percent since Healthy Start began in 1991. Healthy Start is the foundation for early intervention, child protection and school readiness programs. Healthy Start screens all pregnant women and newborns; identifies mothers and babies at-risk; provides mothers and babies with coordinated services; and involves public-private partnerships.