Programs and Services for Children and Families

Prenatal Care

Nothing is more precious than a healthy baby. We provide "mothers-to-be" with prenatal healthcare and support. Remember, we are here for both of you.

The Prenatal Care Program is an aggressive outreach to provide encouragement and support services to pregnant women (girls) who may not have the resources to seek appropriate prenatal care for themselves or their unborn babies. This program has been funded by Catholic Health Care West and First Five of San Joaquin.

Go Before You Show

Go Before You Show is a collaborative effort of Catholic Charities and the following agencies:

• Blue Cross of California
• California Department of Public Health / MCAH Branch
• Community Medical Centers
• First 5 San Joaquin
• Health Plan of San Joaquin
• Lao Family Community
• St. Joseph’s Medical Center
• SJC Human Services Agency
• SJC Public Health Services / Family Health Division
• San Joaquin General Hospital

The goal of the Go Before You Show program is to improve first trimester entry into prenatal care in order to improve birth outcomes. In other words, help pregnant women get prenatal care within the first 12 weeks of pregnancy so they can have healthy babies.

San Joaquin County ranks near the bottom in infant mortality, low birth weights and prenatal care. Of California’s 58 counties, San Joaquin County ranks 52nd in infant mortality for all race and ethnic groups. SJC is 46th in low birth weights, 52nd in no prenatal care within first trimester, and 55th in “adequate” prenatal care.

The Go Before You Show program will help pregnant women and teenagers apply for no-cost or low-cost health insurance, apply for WIC (Women, Infants & Children) benefits, and help arrange for transportation to doctor’s appointments.

Go Before You Show has been funded by a $22,500 grant from St. Joseph’s Hospital, a $15,000 grant from Health Plan of San Joaquin, and $2,000 from Rotary. Comcast has donated one month of commercial airtime. The poster, brochure and flyer design and production costs were paid by First 5 San Joaquin, Public Health Services, and Health Plan of San Joaquin.