Creating an Alianza: Group Perinatal Education for Newly Immigrated Latinx Pregnant People

Abstract

Pregnant people who are recent immigrants often face barriers navigating the health care system and establishing a support network to sustain them through pregnancy and new parenthood. The Cultivando una Nueva Alianza (CUNA) program from the Children's Home Society of New Jersey was created to address these obstacles. For over 20 years, CUNA has collaborated with local midwives to develop a program for newly immigrated, Spanish-speaking Latinx pregnant people. The curriculum, facilitated by trained members of the community, provides education around pregnancy, birth, and early parenting and connects participants with prenatal care and community resources while cultivating a social support network. The program's success is seen in improved clinical outcomes, ongoing involvement by graduates, and strong continued support from community stakeholders. The CUNA program has been replicated in nearby communities and offers a blueprint for a low-tech intervention to improve the health and wellness of this population.