The Doula Fund
The Doula Fund exists in support of specific vulnerable communities receiving birth doula support during their pregnancies and births. Founded in Janurary 2025, The Doula Fund aims to increase the number of Black and LGBTQIA families receiving birth doula support in Connecticut.
What is The Doula Fund
I began the doula fund as a way of giving back to my community and helping to aid vulnerable communities access Birth Doula care, specifically Black women and LGBTQIA birthing people. I personally contribute 5% of my doula income to the fund and monies in the fund are then distributed to local families.
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Black women have a significantly higher maternal mortality rate than their white counterparts and often face racism within the medical system. Queer families often face astronomical costs when building their families and can be up against profound discrimination within the medical system. The presence of a birth doula can have incredible impacts on birth outcomes. All families deserve safe, respectful, and loving birth experiences.
Did You Know?
When receiving birth doula support, birthing people are two times less likely to experience a birth complication, four times less likely to have a low birthweight baby, experience a significant reduction in C-section rates, and report feeling more happy about their birth experiences than those parents who did not work with a doula
Ready to apply? Make sure you meet the requirements below and then take a few minutes to complete our application.
Applicants must be:
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a black woman or identify as a member of the LGBTQIA+ community
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​planning to give birth in the state of Connecticut
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working with a doula. You can apply prior to hiring a doula, but approval will be pending proof of a signed contract with a doula - funds are sent directly to your doula once approved
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the Doula Fund for?
The Doula Fun supports Black Women and the LGBTQIA community. While we recognize that Doula access would benefit other vulnerable communities, we are choosing to keep out focus with Black mothers and LGBTQIA birthing people, especially trans and non-binary people. Keeping our focus on these groups means that we can have greater impact and not spread ourselves too thin.
How do I apply for assistance from the Doula Fund?
The Doula Fund application can be found HERE. It takes no more than five minutes to complete, and applicants will be informed of approval within 48 business hours.
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Do I have to show proof of income?
No. The Doula Fund does not require proof of income. In order to make sure that our funds are going to real people, you will be asked for a proof of contract with your doula and a photo ID.
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Do I have to work with Bethany Kate Wellness as my doula?
No. You can work with any doula! If you are working with a doula outside of Bethany Kate Wellness, your doula will be asked to complete a tax form and funds will be sent to them directly.
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I don't need assistance from The Doula Fund, but I'd love to contribute. Is there a way for me to make a contribution?
We are so grateful for your generosity and willingness to pay it forward! Contributions can be made by contacting Bethany at Bethany@BethanyKateWellness.com. Please note that we are not currently a non-profit organization and contributions are a welcomed gift, but are not tax deductible donations.