FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE United Way of Southwest Virginia Expands Flourish Maternal and Infant Health Project to the New River Valley
New two-year grant from The Anne Mullen Orrell Charitable Trust, Bank of America, N.A., Trustee brings proven maternal and infant health supports, and workforce opportunities, to more families.
Abingdon, Virginia (February 2, 2026)- United Way of Southwest Virginia is proud to announce the expansion of its Flourish Maternal and Infant Health and Well-Being Project to the New River Valley, thanks to a generous two-year grant from The Anne Mullen Orrell Charitable Trust, Bank of America, N.A., Trustee.
This $200,000.00 investment builds on the success of the original Flourish Project and extends its impact to more mothers, babies, and families across the region. Originally launched in Wise County, Dickenson County, and the City of Norton, through a partnership with The Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield Foundation and The Rapha Foundation, the Flourish Project was created in response to the significant challenges facing expectant and new mothers in rural Southwest Virginia, challenges such as limited access to prenatal care, transportation barriers, financial strain, and a lack of social and emotional supports.
The New River Valley expansion will replicate this proven, community-driven model to help ensure families have the resources they need for healthy pregnancies, safe births, and strong beginnings. The Flourish Project focuses on improving maternal and infant health outcomes by closing gaps in care and support. Through the New River Valley expansion, United Way of Southwest Virginia will continue to provide financial assistance to help expectant mothers prepare for the birth of their child, strengthen connections between prenatal care providers and families to increase access to timely prenatal visits, and foster social supports that promote mental, emotional, and social well-being for mothers during pregnancy and early parenthood.
In addition to direct family support, the New River Valley Flourish expansion places a strong emphasis on workforce development. Grant funding will support scholarships for individuals pursuing doula certification, helping to grow a culturally responsive maternal health workforce while expanding access to trusted prenatal and postnatal support services. This approach not only improves care for families but also creates meaningful employment pathways in a growing and essential field.
“This expansion is about meeting families where they are and surrounding them with care, connection, and opportunity,” said Megan Parks, Executive Director of United Way of Southwest Virginia. “With this investment, we are able to bring a model that has already shown promise to the New River Valley, strengthening prenatal and postnatal outcomes while investing in the people who provide this vital care. Every mother and baby deserves the chance to not just survive, but truly flourish.”
The Flourish Project – New River Valley is scheduled to launch in January, with additional program details and opportunities for community involvement to be shared in the coming months. Through strong partnerships and a commitment to health equity, United Way of Southwest Virginia continues to work toward healthier starts for families and a more resilient region.
P.O. Box 644, Abingdon, Virginia, 24212
(276) 628-2160
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United Way of Southwest Virginia fights for the health, education, and financial stability of every person in Southwest Virginia because they are the building blocks for a good quality of life. United Way convenes cross-sector partners to make an impact on the most complex problems in our region. Through collaboration with government, businesses, nonprofits, and individuals, United Way innovates for positive, lasting social change. With a footprint that covers more than 20% of the state of Virginia, United Way of Southwest Virginias serve the counties of Bland, Buchanan, Carroll, Dickenson, Floyd, Giles, Grayson, Lee, Montgomery, Pulaski, Russell, Scott, Smyth, Tazewell, Washington, Wise, and Wythe, and the cities of Bristol, Galax, Norton, and Radford.
Media Contacts:
Megan Parks, Executive Director, United Way of Southwest Virginia
276-628-2160
Unitedwayswva.org