Funding to grow and strengthen Kansas City’s doula care
The Kansas City Health Department, in partnership with Community Capital Fund (CCF), is proud to announce the launch of the KC Doula Program, a new grant initiative designed to support and strengthen doula businesses and organizations serving Kansas City, Missouri. Applications for funding opened Monday, June 16, 2025, with a deadline of July 28, 2025.
Funded through the American Rescue Plan Act, the KC Doula Program aims to provide financial assistance of up to $15,000 per awardee to help local doulas enhance services, expand their reach, and navigate the evolving landscape of maternal health care. Research consistently shows that doula care leads to improved maternal and infant health outcomes, including lower cesarean rates, shorter labors, decreased postpartum depression, and more personalized birthing experiences.
“Doulas play a critical role in supporting healthy pregnancies, safe births, and stronger families,” said Dr. Marvia Jones. “This program recognizes their importance and seeks to invest in their growth and long-term sustainability.”
Eligible applicants must:
Be 18 years or older.
Serve families within Kansas City, Missouri city limits.
Be a legally established business or nonprofit in Kansas City, Missouri.
Applicants for this program must be an enrolled Medicaid provider or intend to use program funds to gain Medicaid Provider status. A certified doula having provided services for at least 12 months.
Grant funds can be used to cover a variety of expenses such as continuing education, insurance costs, business development, administrative support, and other professional development needs. Doulas who have questions about eligible expenses are encouraged to contact the program team for guidance.
Application Process
Interested doulas may apply in one of three ways:
Complete the online application at www.ccfkansascity.org/DoulaKC.
Download and email a completed PDF application to grants@ccfkansascity.org.
Pick up and submit a physical application by mail or drop-off to Community Capital Fund, 3200 Wayne Ave, Kansas City, MO 64109.
Following a thorough review process, applicants will be notified of award decisions by August 18, 2025. The first round of grant disbursements is scheduled for August 25, 2025.
For full program details, eligibility requirements, and application materials, visit www.ccfkansascity.org/DoulaKC or contact Community Capital Fund at grants@ccfkansascity.org or (816) 502-9584.
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About Community Capital Fund
The Community Capital Fund (“CCF”) is a mission-driven community development organization committed to empowering communities through strategic investments, program management, and partnerships. Our work is grounded in fostering equitable economic development and promoting access to resources that catalyze positive change in neighborhoods. CCF has collaborated with KCHD on four prior programs including Startup Assets for Entrepreneurs (“SAFE”), Community Wellness Ambassadors (“CWA”), Regional Health Prosperity (“Community Leads”), and Strengthening the Health of Neighborhoods (“STRONG”). These collaborations have demonstrated our ability to deliver impactful programs through efficient fund management, community engagement, and capacity-building initiatives.
About the Kansas City Health Department
The Kansas City Health Department (“KCHD”) is dedicated to measurably improving the health and health outcomes of all Kansas City residents through community-directed programs, services, and widespread collaboration, guided by the vision of cultivating an engaged and healthy community. This mission is driven by core values that prioritize community members as engaged partners, transparent and accessible communication, radical ownership and accountability, extensive collaboration on every initiative, data-driven decision-making, and the creation of equitable opportunities for all.
Media with questions may contact media@kcmo.org.