County Public Health highlights Black Infant Health efforts in statewide summit

Click the image to watch the video.

The San Bernardino County Department of Public Health’s Black Infant Health (BIH) Program joined other dedicated partners to present a collaborative video highlighting the collective work being done to improve birth outcomes and advance health equity for Black mothers and infants.

The video was submitted as part of the 2025 California Black Birth Equity Summit—an annual event that brings together professionals, advocates and community leaders committed to addressing disparities and promoting positive maternal and infant health outcomes within the Black community.

With alarming disparities that primarily affect Black maternal health, community partnerships and synergy can improve the prenatal care experience. “Building trust [in the community] is what’s important to eradicate the disparities because there’s been so much harm that has been done to our community,” said Monique Amis, Community and Family Health Division chief and acting maternal, child, and adolescent health director. “Our panel discussion is about building those relationships of trust with each other so that the families we serve can trust us and know that we are working together to collectively achieve optimum birth outcomes.”

Watch the video: Black Infant Health – 2025 California Black Birth Equity Summit Submission.

The video features insights from:

Kendra Flores-Carter, DSW, co-program director, NAEBOR Clinic
Kristina Roloff, DO, MPH, co-program director, NAEBOR Clinic
Erica McIntosh, DSW, MSW, LCSW
Monique Amis, division chief, Community and Family Health Division, and acting maternal, child, and adolescent health director, San Bernardino County Department of Public Health
Kanisha Neal, program coordinator, Black Infant Health, San Bernardino County Department of Public Health

In this on-demand discussion, the BIH team and partners share program strategies, community collaborations and success stories that underscore the importance of culturally responsive care and supportive environments for Black families. From empowering prenatal and postpartum education to fostering community connections, the discussion showcases ongoing efforts to ensure every family can thrive.

The Department of Public Health extends appreciation to all of the BIH staff, community partners, and leaders who contributed to this meaningful project and continue to champion birth equity in San Bernardino County and beyond.

Learn more about maternal, child, and adolescent health, including the Black Infant Health Program, and how you can support healthy beginnings for all families at dph.sbcounty.gov/mcah.

Additional County Update News – October 30, 2025