Maternal & Child Health

JICC supports first-time mothers in Jerusalem’s Haredi and religious communities with practical knowledge, emotional support, and trusted community-based guidance during the critical transition to motherhood.

Impact

100

First-time mothers supported each year

450

Family members indirectly benefiting from healthier, better-supported mothers

Cohorts successfully completed the program

Context

Becoming a mother for the first time can be an overwhelming transition, particularly when young women have limited access to culturally appropriate information, professional guidance, and emotional support. In Jerusalem’s Haredi and religious communities, mothers navigate the physical, emotional, and practical demands of pregnancy, childbirth, infant care, and family life within distinct cultural and communal frameworks.

JICC’s Maternal & Child Health program provides an accessible, community-based support system for first-time mothers. The program connects women with practical knowledge, professional guidance, and social support during the early stages of motherhood. By working within the communities themselves and responding to their specific needs, the program strengthens mothers’ confidence and wellbeing while helping families create healthier, more supportive environments for young children.

Strategies

Prepare Mothers for Early Parenthood

Provide first-time mothers with practical, accessible guidance on infant care, maternal wellbeing, early childhood development, and the everyday challenges of transitioning to parenthood.

Build Community-Based Support

Create trusted spaces where mothers can learn, ask questions, share experiences, and develop supportive relationships with other women navigating the same stage of life.

Strengthen Mothers and Families

Strengthen mothers’ confidence, wellbeing, and ability to care for themselves and their babies, contributing to healthier children, stronger families, and greater resilience during the critical early stages of parenthood.

Relevant Staff

Maayan Cohen

Project Manager

jicc@jicc.org.il: