About the Doula Project
Supported by a grant from the BlueCross BlueShield Foundation, the Greater Lowell Health Alliance launched a doula training project to expand access to culturally and linguistically diverse doulas who can support families during pregnancy, birth, and postpartum. In 2025, 13 multilingual community members were trained as postpartum doulas. Additional support also supported doulas in securing MassHealth provider eligibility, allowing them to accept payment for doula services via MassHealth.
Upcoming Projects
Additional funding from the BlueCross BlueShield Foundation has allowed GLHA to expand efforts to support the perinatal workforce through 2027. Our current efforts include:
Doula Training
In partnership with Jodi Congdon of Hip to Heart doula agency, GLHA will offer a free post-partum doula training for interested community members from the Greater Lowell or Merrimack Valley area. Dates/location/registration information TBD.
Professional Development for Perinatal Health & Social Service Workers
With our community partners, GLHA will offer free trainings for community members working in the field of perinatal health to support their ongoing professional development. Field experts plan to offer trainings on lactation support, safe sleep, cultural considerations during the perinatal periods, and more. In addition to content area expertise, we will also offer business trainings &support for perinatal professionals interested in starting their own doula or lactation agencies or groups,
Upcoming Opportunities:
May 12
11:00a – 1:00p at 55 Technology Dr.
Postpartum 101 with Madison Fugere (DONA-certified postpartum doula & certified sleep consultant)
Please register via RSVP@greaterlowellhealthalliance.org
May 21
11:00a – 1:00p at 55 Technology Dr.
Newborn Sleep for Postpartum Professionals with Madison Fugere (DONA-certified postpartum doula & certified sleep consultant)
Please register via RSVP@greaterlowellhealthalliance.org
Professional Linkages
The Maternal-Child Task Force is working closely with area providers, including Lowell General Hospital & Lowell Community Health Center, to streamline integration of doulas into the care continuum.
Please join our Maternal-Child Task Force! Monthly meetings are posted in our calendar
Social & Community Connections
Community support is critical for supporting people working in the field of perinatal health. The GLHA is supporting a casual meeting for doulas, lactation professionals, postpartum home visitors, nurses, and others who work with new families where professionals can connect, share experiences, and build community with people who understand this field.
Meeting times and locations TBD in early spring 2026.